Pelosi Statement on Harsh New Immigration Law in Arizona

Contact: Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. - Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after Governor Jan Brewer of Arizona signed harsh new immigration legislation:

"The new law in Arizona is a reminder of the need for urgent, bipartisan action at the federal level to enact comprehensive immigration reform to secure our borders, keep our nation safe, uphold the rule of law, protect our workers and our economy, unite families, and provide a pathway to legalization.

"Our nation has been sustained and strengthened by immigrants from generation to generation and that is why today’s action in Arizona is misguided and irresponsible. Families have come to the United States hoping for a better life and striving for a brighter future. We must do everything in our power to build on that tradition by passing comprehensive immigration reform and ensuring our nation’s cherished civil rights."