On the recordSeptember 25, 2013
For the past 5 years, I have been working to try and help keep the promise we made to Iraqis and Afghans who helped our soldiers in those battles that we will protect them as we leave. Because they helped America, their lives are in great peril to people who have long memories and who hate America. The Special Immigrant Visa program that would allow them to come to the United States is a mess. It doesn't work very well. It's slow and convoluted. But now it's going to expire in 5 days. We have a no-cost solution to at least allow the program to continue to limp along; but the House Judiciary Committee, despite broad bipartisan support for this no-cost, simple solution, has refused so far to be able to move it forward. Every Member of the House should insist that we keep our obligation to these people who helped our soldiers and be able to protect them and their families. It's our moral obligation. I strongly urge each Member to make their views known. ____________________
