Last week, Rep. María Elvira Salazar, Florida Republican, and Rep. Veronica Escobar, Texas Democrat, announced a promising new immigration bill. Ms. Salazar and Ms. Escobar’s bill is aptly called the Dignity Act. It rightly marries the two components needed for the immigration system to work for America — enforcement increases alongside expanding legal paths. Immigration policy works best when it includes a high wall and a wide gate.
People wishing to earn the right to stay must pay $5,000 over seven years. Those funds are then available for retraining and helping natives. Both sides should instead see tying restitution for breaking the rules to helping natives as a success. This addition would make the immigration system work for natives. At the same time, it communicates the importance of the rule of law and orderly immigration processes.
While the Dignity Act includes the right ingredients for successful immigration reform, it faces a steep climb through the House. Just two weeks ago, House Republicans passed a different immigration bill that is solely about border security.