Jokes about politicians getting work done may abound, but state leaders might actually be more effective when they’re on holiday. At least that’s what some people are hoping as the U.S. Congress prepares for its summer recess. Many proponents and opponents of immigration reform are regarding the five-week break as a chance to meet with House members back in their own states, where they can share their views and hopefully inspire action.
Rumor has it that the House of Representatives may in fact begin working toward some degree of immigration reform this year, since they are expected to vote on a number of related bills as early as October. And the House and the Senate might even join for a committee meeting before next year’s midterm election season kicks off. There’s also rising hope that key Republican House members are taking issues like immigrant status and the state of the border seriously, which should help to drive progress.
In an effort to take full advantage of the break, many reform advocates intend to meet their state representatives on their home turf, attending town hall meetings and other events to communicate their views on the topic. Everyone from labor groups to religious leaders to businessmen are expected to lobby through August.
It seems that there is sense of urgency coming from both sides of the issue to make some noise and relay the peoples’ message to Congress. And while their level of participation in this recess rally is yet to be seen, reform opponents are likely to speak up as well.
Source: USA Today, “Immigration reform backers see hopeful signs in House,” Dan Nowicki, July 31, 2013
