100%
A+
Reduce Chain Migration
242.25 out of 242.25 Total Points
2013: Voted against invoking cloture on legislation to expand chain migration (Schumer) Sen. Barrasso against invoking cloture on S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, the Gang of Eights comprehensive amnesty bill. The legislation would amnesty and provide a pathway to citizenship for 11-18 million illegal aliens living in the United States and drastically increase legal immigration to the United States. The legislation does mandate use of the E-Verify system, ends the visa lottery, and increases border patrol manpower (though, without spelling out the duties of the additional agents). The motion passed 82-15. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is bills main sponsor.
2007-2008: Voted on Senate floor against increasing chain migration.
Sen. Barrasso voted against a second motion to invoke cloture on S. 1639, which would increase chain migration by approximately 251,000 per year. The motion to invoke cloture would have limited further debate on the bill and moved it to a final vote. A vote against cloture was effectively a vote in favor of killing the amnesty-guestworker bill. The motion to invoke cloture failed by a vote of 46 to 53.
No Action
Reduce Visa Lottery
86%
A-
Reduce Unnecessary Worker Visas
751 out of 870.5 Total Points
2022: Voted in favor of H.R. 2471 to increase in H-2B and EB-5 visas Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of H.R. 2471, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, introduced by Rep. Hakeem Jefferies (D-N.Y.). The legislation authorizes the Department of Homeland Security to double the number of H-2B low-skill, non-agricultural visas for FY2022. Further, the legislation reauthorizes the EB-5 investor visa program. The legislation was signed into law.
2020: Voted in favor of H.R 133, the Consolidated Appropriations Act on Senate floor Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of H.R. 133, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, that would weaken interior enforcement and increase foreign worker visas. The bill reduced funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement by $431 million. Further, the bill authorized the Departments of Homeland Security and Labor to increase the number of H-2B visas issued during the 2021 fiscal year.
2020: Cosponsored S. 3599, the Healthcare Workforce Resilience Act, to increase green cards for doctors and nurses Sen. Barrasso cosponsored S. 3599, the Healthcare Workforce Resilience Act, introduced by Sen. David Perdue (R-Ga.). The legislation would recapture 40,000 green cards that would otherwise go unused as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and allow for those green cards to be issued to foreign doctors and nurses with applications submitted within 90 days of the end of the Covid-19 national emergency.
2019: Voted against H.R. 1865, the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, to prevent H-2B increases Sen. Barrasso voted against H.R. 1865, the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, that provides funding for the federal government for FY2020. H.R. 1865 included a provision that authorizes the Department of Homeland Security to nearly double the available H-2B visas for the remainder of FY 2020. Under the same provision, DHS added an additional 30,000 H-2Bs in FY 2019.
2019: Voted in favor of the omnibus spending bill, H.J. Res. 31, to increase H-2B visas Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of H.J.Res. 31, the omnibus spending bill. The bill allows for the Secretary of Homeland Security to increase the number of H-2B guest worker visas issued in FY2019.
2017: Voted in favor of increasing foreign worker visas Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of H.R. 244, the 2017 omnibus spending bill. A provision of the bill allows DHS to raise the H-2B cap by 70,000 in 2017 by excluding returning H-2B workers. The spending bill, and the H-2B provision, covers half of 2017.
2015: Voted for the FY2016 Omnibus Spending bill to increase foreign guest workers Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of H.R. 2029, the Omnibus Spending bill for 2016. This legislation would increase the number of H-2B low-skilled, non-agricultural guest worker visas issued in 2016 from 66,000 to 264,000. The legislation would exempt foreign workers who had received an H-2B visa in any of the past three years from the 2016 cap.
2015: Voted in favor of H.R. 2146 to grant President authority to expand immigration levels without Congress consent via Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of final passage of Trade Promotion Authority bill, H.R. 2146. (NOTE: in order to pass TPA the House of Representatives split the original bill Senate-passed bill H.R. 1314 into two bills, one dealing with Trade Adjustment Assistance and one dealing with the TransPacific Partnership. As a result, when the legislation came back to the Senate for a final vote, the Senate had to attach the TPA language to another House-originated bill, H.R. 2146 and vote to pass that legislation). This legislation would set up fast-track procedures for the passage of trade deals negotiated by the president. Although Ambassador Froman, the U.S. Trade Representative, repeatedly assured Members of Congress that the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) will not include immigration provisions that require the United States to change its laws, the Living Agreement provision of TPP means by its very terms that President Obama, or his successor, can change the provisions of the agreement however he chooses with no input whatsoever from Congress and regardless of what TPA instructs. H.R. 2146 passed the Senate by a vote of 60-38.
2015: Voted in favor of granting President authority to expand immigration levels without Congress consent via Trade Promotion Authority in 2015 Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of final passage of Trade Promotion Authority bill, H.R. 1314. This legislation would set up fast-track procedures for the passage of trade deals negotiated by the president. Although Ambassador Froman, the U.S. Trade Representative, repeatedly assured Members of Congress that the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) will not include immigration provisions that require the United States to change its laws, the Living Agreement provision of TPP means by its very terms that President Obama, or his successor, can change the provisions of the agreement however he chooses with no input whatsoever from Congress and regardless of what TPA instructs. H.R. 1314 passed the Senate by a vote of 62-37.
2013: Voted against invoking cloture on legislation to drastically increase foreign worker visas (Schumer) Sen. Barrasso against invoking cloture on S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, the Gang of Eights comprehensive amnesty bill. The legislation would amnesty and provide a pathway to citizenship for 11-18 million illegal aliens living in the United States and drastically increase legal immigration to the United States. The legislation does mandate use of the E-Verify system, ends the visa lottery, and increases border patrol manpower (though, without spelling out the duties of the additional agents). The motion passed 82-15. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is bills main sponsor.
2009-2010: Cosponsored a bill to increase the number of H-2B workers (Mikulski).
Sen. Barrasso cosponsored the Save Our Small and Seasonal Businesses Act of 2009 (S. 388). The bill would have allowed an alien to return as an H-2B nonimmigrant worker without counting against the annual 66,000 cap if they had used an H-2B visa during one of the three previous fiscal years, effectively tripling the number of H-2B workers. Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) is the bills main sponsor.
2007-2008: Cosponsored a bill to increase the number of H-2B workers (Mikulski).
Sen. Barrasso cosponsored the Save Our Small and Seasonal Businesses Act of 2009 (S. 988). The bill would have allowed an alien to return as an H-2B nonimmigrant worker without counting against the annual 66,000 cap if they had used an H-2B visa during one of the three previous fiscal years, effectively tripling the number of H-2B workers. Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) is the bills main sponsor.
2007-2008: Voted on Senate floor against increasing foreign worker importation.
Sen. Barrasso voted against a second motion to invoke cloture on S. 1639, which would increase the importation of both temporary and permanent foreign workers. S. 1639 would increase the importation of temporary foreign workers by 340,000 year and also add 106,877 permanent workers a year for 5 years. The motion to invoke cloture would have limited further debate on the bill and moved it to a final vote. A vote against cloture was effectively a vote in favor of killing the amnesty-guestworker bill. The motion to invoke cloture failed by a vote of 46 to 53.
39%
C-
Refugees & Asylees
54.5 out of 138.5 Total Points
2023: Voted in favor of S. Amdt. 110 to H.R. 3476 to reduce Asylum Fraud
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of S. Amdt. 110, offered by Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) to H.R. 3476. S. Amdt. 110 would have added the House-passed H.R. 2 to the Debt Limit compromise bill. The legislation would significantly reduce asylum fraud by strengthening the credible fear standard to ensure that only those who are more than likely to be awarded asylum by an immigration judge are allowed to continue with the asylum process. Further, it would prohibit individuals who cross the border illegally from claiming asylum and prevent asylum seekers from receiving a work permit for one year after entry.
2023: Sponsored S. 348 to block parole for illegal aliens who claim asylum
Sen. Barrasso sponsored S. 348, the Asylum Abuse Reduction Act, introduced by Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.). The legislation would block parole for aliens who arrive illegally and claim asylum and for CBP to refer them to a U.S. embassy or consulate. Further, it would block asylum for aliens who transit a third country in which they would not face persecution.
2015: Cosponsored legislation to Halt Refugee Resettlement from Syria (Vitter) Sen. Barrasso has cosponsored S. 2284, the Syrian Refugee Verification and Safety Act. The bill would halt Syrian refugees from being resettled in the U.S. until Congress passes a joint resolution. The bill was introduced by Sen. David Vitter (R-La.).
2015: Voted for the FY2016 Omnibus Spending bill to increase refugee resettlement Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of H.R. 2029, the Omnibus Spending bill for 2016. This legislation would fully fund the refugee resettlement program and include increases in funding to accommodate Pres. Obamas proposal to resettle an additional 10,000 Syrian refugees in the United States in 2016.
2014: Cosponsored legislation to weaken border security (Cuellar) Rep. Barrasso has cosponsored H.R. 5114, legislation intended to address the surge of unaccompanied alien children (UACs) on the Southwest border, but would actually make the situation much worse. Though the distinction between UACs from Mexico and other countries is removed, it exposes all of them to a complicated process which would further delay returning the children to their countries of origin. Further, it explicitly grants immigration judges the ability to unilaterally expunge an aliens notice to appear (NTA) or final order of removal at whim, assuming they were received between January 1, 2013, and enactment, giving eligible aliens multiple bites at the apple and setting a devastating precedent for immigration law. While the bill makes small beneficial changes like the addition of 40 new immigration judges, requires DHS to improve Border Security resources and equipment, and requires background checks on UAC sponsors, it implements provisions from the McCaul Border Security bill (H.R. 1417), which actually weakens current law while only requiring a plan to secure the border.
2013: Voted against invoking cloture on legislation to increase refugee and asylum fraud (Schumer) Sen. Barrasso against invoking cloture on S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, the Gang of Eights comprehensive amnesty bill. The legislation would amnesty and provide a pathway to citizenship for 11-18 million illegal aliens living in the United States and drastically increase legal immigration to the United States. The legislation does mandate use of the E-Verify system, ends the visa lottery, and increases border patrol manpower (though, without spelling out the duties of the additional agents). The motion passed 82-15. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is bills main sponsor.
66%
B-
Reduce Amnesty Enticements
3848.5 out of 5768.5 Total Points
2023: Voted in favor of S. Amdt. 110 to H.R. 3476 to prevent amnesties for illegal border crossers
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of S. Amdt. 110, offered by Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) to H.R. 3476. S. Amdt. 110 would have added the House-passed H.R. 2 to the Debt Limit compromise bill. The legislation would reduce amnesty by strictly limiting the situations under which an administration can grant parole to illegal aliens.
2023: Sponsored S. 348 to block parole for illegal aliens who claim asylum
Sen. Barrasso sponsored S. 348, the Asylum Abuse Reduction Act, introduced by Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.). The legislation would block parole for aliens who arrive illegally and claim asylum and for CBP to refer them to a U.S. embassy or consulate. Further, it would block asylum for aliens who transit a third country in which they would not face persecution.
2018: Voted against the McCain-Coons amendment that would grant amnesty to illegal aliens Sen. Barrasso voted against an amendment offered by Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) to the Senate shell bill for granting amnesty to illegal aliens. The McCain-Coons amendment would grant amnesty to an estimated 3.2 million young-adult illegal aliens. The amendment failed 52-to-47 (needed 60 votes to pass).
2018: Voted against the Schumer-Collins-Rounds-King amendment that would grant amnesty to illegal aliens Sen. Barrasso voted against an amendment offered by Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Angus King (I-Maine) to the Senate shell bill for granting amnesty to illegal aliens. The Schumer-Collins-Rounds-King amendment would have granted amnesty to an estimated 1.8 million young-adult illegal aliens and granted a defacto amnesty to another 850,000 illegal aliens by protecting them from deportations. The amendment failed 54-to-45 (needed 60 votes to pass).
2015: Voted against Attorney General nominee who supports amnesty Sen. Barrasso voted against Loretta Lynchs confirmation as Attorney General. The Office of the Attorney General, the top law enforcement office in the country, is a position that should be reserved for qualified individuals with the utmost regard for the rule of law. Unfortunately, while Ms. Lynch served honorably as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, she indicated during the confirmation process that she did not have that regard for duly enacted immigration laws. She deemed reasonable President Obamas unprecedented and unconstitutional amnesties. Her dismissive attitude about the seriousness of enforcing immigration laws was largely explained in her initial answer to Senate questioning about whether the priority for U.S. jobs should be that they go to unlawfully present foreign workers or to legal workers of our nation. Ms. Lynch answered that everybody should be getting U.S. jobs regardless of their legal status, despite the fact that the primary purpose of immigration laws is to protect vulnerable American workers. As a result, NumbersUSA took an unusual step and scored the vote for the confirmation of Ms. Lynch as a vote against against the rule of law, and against the interests of American workers. Ms. Lynch was confirmed by a vote of 56 to 43.
2015: Voted FOR Executive Amnesty by voting against Sessions/Lee motion to allow possibility of de-funding Executive Amnesty in DHS Appropriations Sen. Barrasso voted against the Sessions/Lee motion to table the amendment tree on H.R. 240. After a series of 4 failed attempts to invoke cloture and move to debate on H.R. 240 (the House-passed DHS Appropriations bill that included language to de-fund Pres. Obamas Executive Amnesties), Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) struck a deal with Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) to move a clean DHS bill that would fund the amnesties through September 2015. As part of this deal, Majority Leader McConnell filled the amendment tree in order to provide full funding for President Obamas unconstitutional and illegal amnesties and block all other amendments to H.R. 240. This was especially outrageous given that Leader McConnell promised to restore regular order and an open amendment process when he became Senate Leader in January 2015. In response, Senators Sessions (R-AL) and Lee (R-UT) filed a motion to table the amendment tree, thus allowing amendments to the bill and the possibility of restoring the de-funding language. Thus, a vote against the Sessions/Lee motion to table the amendment tree was a vote for amnesty and lawlessness a vote against the open process. The Sessions/Lee motion to table failed by a vote of 34 to 65.
2015: Voted in FAVOR OF McConnell substitute amendment to H.R. 240 to fund Executive Amnesties Sen. Barrasso voted in FAVOR OF the McConnell amendment to substitute the text of HR 240 with language that would provide full and unrestricted funding for President Obamas unconstitutional and illegal Executive Amnesties. After a series of 4 failed attempts to invoke cloture and move to debate on H.R. 240 (the House-passed DHS Appropriations bill that included language to de-fund Pres. Obamas Executive Amnesties), Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) struck a deal with Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) to move a clean DHS bill that would fund the amnesties through September 2015. Voting in favor of the McConnell substitute amendment was a vote against protecting struggling American workers who will have to compete for scarce jobs with millions of unlawful immigrants. It was also a vote to cede Congress constitutional powers to a President who has shown absolute disdain for the rule of law and the separation of powers at the very core of our Constitution. Senators cannot expect the judicial branch to reclaim the legislative powers for which they are unwilling to fight. The McConnell Amendment passed by a vote of 66 to 33.
2015: Voted for THIRD Motion to bring H.R. 240 (DHS Appropriations bill) to de-fund Executive Amnesty to Senate floor Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the THIRD cloture motion to allow the Senate to begin debate on the House-passed DHS Appropriations bill (H.R. 240) that includes language to de-fund President Obamas Executive Amnesties, including DACA and his November 2014 amnesty to give work permits to up to 5 million illegal aliens. DHS funding runs out at the end of February 2015 and President Obama has threatened to veto any appropriations bill that includes language to de-fund his amnesties, essentially saying his amnesty is more important than funding for DHS. No Senate Democrats voted to allow the bill to the Senate floor for debate. The motion failed by a vote of 52 - 47 (60 votes required for passage).
2015: Voted for SECOND Motion to bring H.R. 240 (DHS Appropriations bill) to de-fund Executive Amnesty to Senate floor Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the SECOND cloture motion to allow the Senate to begin debate on the House-passed DHS Appropriations bill (H.R. 240) that includes language to de-fund President Obamas Executive Amnesties, including DACA and his November 2014 amnesty to give work permits to up to 5 million illegal aliens. DHS funding runs out at the end of February 2015 and President Obama has threatened to veto any appropriations bill that includes language to de-fund his amnesties, essentially saying his amnesty is more important than funding for DHS. No Senate Democrats voted to allow the bill to the Senate floor for debate. The motion failed by a vote of 53 - 47 (60 votes required for passage).
2015: Voted for FIRST Motion to Proceed to Debate on DHS Appropriations bill (H.R. 240) to de-fund Executive Amnesty Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of a cloture motion to allow the Senate to begin debate on the House-passed DHS Appropriations bill (H.R. 240) that includes language to de-fund President Obamas Executive Amnesties, including DACA and his November 2014 amnesty to give work permits to up to 5 million illegal aliens. DHS funding runs out at the end of February 2015 and President Obama has threatened to veto any appropriations bill that includes language to de-fund his amnesties, essentially saying his amnesty is more important than funding for DHS. No Senate Democrats voted to allow the bill to the Senate floor for debate. The motion failed by a vote of 51-48.
2014: Voted Against Blocking Obamas Mass Amnesty Sen. Barrasso voted against the Point of Order raised by Sen. Ted Cruz as to the constitutionality of the executive amnesty issued by President Obama. Doing so during a vote on H.R. 83, the CROmnibus, acted as a vote to stop this unlawful amnesty, and a vote against Sen. Cruzs Point of Order was a vote in favor of the presidents amnesty.
2014: Voted in favor of motion to help end DACA (Sessions) Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of an amendment to 2648, the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2014. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid had already offered the maximum number of amendments (in a practice called filling the tree) to the legislation with the express purpose of preventing Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Tex) from offering his legislation to defund DACA. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) offered an amendment, # 3751, to remove all of Sen. Reids amendments so that Sen. Cruzs could be considered. This motion failed 43-52.
2013: Opposed amendment that promised border security after amnesty for 11 million illegal aliens (Schumer-Corker-Hoeven) Sen.Barrasso voted against the Schumer-Corker-Hoeven amendment to S. 744, the Gang of Eights comprehensive amnesty legislation. This amendment was a political ploy by pro-amnesty Senators to pass a bill (S. 744) that was otherwise headed for defeat. As such, a vote in favor of the amendment is graded here as a vote in favor of the full S. 744 amnesty. The Schumer-Corker-Hoeven amendment promised a so-called border surge after 11-18 million illegal aliens receive legal protected status, work permits, and de facto amnesty. In fact, however, the amendment would weaken current law (calling for entry-exit system at only airports and seaports as opposed to all ports of entry and calling for single layer border fencing as opposed to double-layer fencing) and weaken the already-loose enforcement provisions of S. 744 by setting up a rolling amnesty for future visa overstayers. The amendment was designed to give cover to Senators who could claim they supported strong border security amendments by voting for the amendment and then voting for final passage of the bill. The amendment passed 67-27 (24 June 2013).
2013: Voted against invoking cloture on legislation to amnesty illegal aliens (Schumer) Sen. Barrasso against invoking cloture on S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, the Gang of Eights comprehensive amnesty bill. The legislation would amnesty and provide a pathway to citizenship for 11-18 million illegal aliens living in the United States and drastically increase legal immigration to the United States. The legislation does mandate use of the E-Verify system, ends the visa lottery, and increases border patrol manpower (though, without spelling out the duties of the additional agents). The motion passed 82-15. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is bills main sponsor.
2010: Voted against the DREAM Act amnesty.
The DREAM Act would have granted amnesty to illegal aliens under the age of 30 who have been in the United States for five consecutive years and came illegally to the United States before the age of 16. Such a reward for illegal immigration serves as an incentive for more illegal immigration.
2010: Voted against the DREAM Act amnesty.
The DREAM Act would have granted amnesty to illegal aliens under the age of 30 who have been in the United States for five consecutive years and came illegally to the United States before the age of 16. Such a reward for illegal immigration serves as an incentive for more illegal immigration.
2007-2008: Voted against DREAM Act amnesty for illegal aliens.
Sen. Barrasso voted against a motion to invoke cloture on S. 2205, the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act of 2007. S. 2205 would reward up to 2.1 million illegal aliens with amnesty. The motion to invoke cloture failed by a vote of 52 to 44.
2007-2008: Voted on Senate floor against rewarding illegal aliens with amnesty.
Sen. Barrasso voted against a second motion to invoke cloture on S. 1639, which would reward up to six million illegal aliens with amnesty. The motion to invoke cloture would have limited further debate on the bill and moved it to a final vote. A vote against cloture was effectively a vote in favor of killing the amnesty-guestworker bill. The motion to invoke cloture failed by a vote of 46 to 53.
2015: Voted for FOURTH Motion to bring H.R. 240 (DHS Appropriations bill) to de-fund Executive Amnesty to Senate floor Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the FOURTH cloture motion to allow the Senate to begin debate on the House-passed DHS Appropriations bill (H.R. 240) that includes language to de-fund President Obamas Executive Amnesties, including DACA and his November 2014 amnesty to give work permits to up to 5 million illegal aliens. DHS funding runs out at the end of February 2015 and President Obama has threatened to veto any appropriations bill that includes language to de-fund his amnesties, essentially saying his amnesty is more important than funding for DHS. No Senate Democrats voted to allow the bill to the Senate floor for debate. The motion failed by a vote of 47-46 (60 votes required for passage).
No Action
End Birthright Citizenship
100%
A+
Reduce Illegal Immigration Rewards
11.5 out of 11.5 Total Points
2023: Sponsored S. 332 to end tax credits for illegal aliens
Sen. Barrasso sponsored S. 332, the WALL Act, introduced by Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.). The legislation would fix the child tax credit loophole by requiring a Social Security number to claim the credit, block anyone who doesn't have work authorization from receiving the earned income tax credit, require a Social Security number to apply for educational credits, increase the income tax filing fee for anyone with an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN), and require the IRS to validate Social Security numbers on returns.
2022: Sponsored S. 3154 blocking settlement cash to illegal aliens Sen. Barrasso sponsored S. 3154, the Prohibiting Taxpayer Funded Settlements for Illegal Immigrants Act, introduced by Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.). The legislation would block settlement cash from going to families who were separated after crossing the border illegally.
2021: Voted in favor of Amdt. 54 to S. Con. Res. 5 to block stimulus payments to illegal aliens Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of Amendment #54, introduced by Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.), to S. Con. Res. 5, the 2021 COVID-19 stimulus bill. The amendment would have blocked stimulus payments from going to illegal aliens. The amendment was approved 58-42.
2013: Voted against invoking cloture on legislation to amnesty illegal aliens (Schumer) Sen. Barrasso against invoking cloture on S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, the Gang of Eights comprehensive amnesty bill. The legislation would amnesty and provide a pathway to citizenship for 11-18 million illegal aliens living in the United States and drastically increase legal immigration to the United States. The legislation does mandate use of the E-Verify system, ends the visa lottery, and increases border patrol manpower (though, without spelling out the duties of the additional agents). The motion passed 82-15. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is bills main sponsor.
2010: Voted for an amendment in support of Arizonas immigration enforcement law.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the DeMint amendment to H.R. 4213, the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010. The amendment, SA 4464, would have prevented the Department of Justice from participating in any lawsuit against Arizonas immigration enforcement law, SB 1070. Unfortunately, the amendment failed 43-55 on the Senate floor. By supporting this amendment, Sen. Barrasso made it clear that illegal aliens should not be rewarded for breaking immigration laws.
2010: Voted for an amendment in support of Arizonas immigration enforcement law.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the DeMint amendment to H.R. 4213, the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010. The amendment, SA 4464, would have prevented the Department of Justice from participating in any lawsuit against Arizonas immigration enforcement law, SB 1070. Unfortunately, the amendment failed 43-55 on the Senate floor. By supporting this amendment, Sen. Barrasso made it clear that illegal aliens should not be rewarded for breaking immigration laws.
2009-2010: Voted for an amendment that prevented illegal aliens from acquiring credit cards.
Sen. Barrasso supported the Vitter Amendment to H.R. 627, The Credit Cardholders Bill of Rights Act of 2009, and it would have required the banks that issue credit cards to ensure that those granted credit cards are in the United States legally by obliging the banks to verify the identity of applicants using REAL ID-compliant documents. The amendment failed 28-65.
2009-2010: Voted for an amendment that prevented illegal aliens from acquiring credit cards.
Sen. Barrasso supported the Vitter Amendment to H.R. 627, The Credit Cardholders Bill of Rights Act of 2009, and it would have required the banks that issue credit cards to ensure that those granted credit cards are in the United States legally by obliging the banks to verify the identity of applicants using REAL ID-compliant documents. The amendment failed 28-65.
88%
A-
Strengthen Border Security
71 out of 80 Total Points
2023: Voted in favor of S. Amdt. 110 to H.R. 3476 to strengthen border security
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of S. Amdt. 110, offered by Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) to H.R. 3476. S. Amdt. 110 would have added the House-passed H.R. 2 to the Debt Limit compromise bill. The legislation would require DHS to restart border wall construction that has been authorized for and paid for by Congress and strengthen the Secure Fence Act of 2006 by requiring physical barriers along 900 miles of border. The legislation also provides retention bonuses for Border Patrol agents and defunds efforts to resettle illegal border crossers across the country.
2023: Sponsored S. 332 to reduce border surges
Sen. Barrasso sponsored S. 332, the WALL Act, introduced by Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.). The legislation would appropriate $25 billion for border fencing. Further, the legislation would increase civil penalties for illegal entry.
2021: Voted in favor of Amdt. 542 to S. Con. Res. 5 to provide border fence funding Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of Amendment #542, introduced by Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.), to S. Con. Res. 5, the 2021 COVID-19 stimulus bill. The amendment would have provided funding for border fence construction. The amendment failed 50-50.
2021: Voted in favor of Amdt. 687 to S. Con. Res. 5 to reinstate the Remain in Mexico policy Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of Amendment #687, introduced by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), to S. Con. Res. 5, the 2021 COVID-19 stimulus bill. The amendment would have reinstated the Migrant Protection Protocols, commonly known as the Remain in Mexico policy. The amendment failed 50-50.
2021: Voted in favor of Amdt. 651 to S. Con. Res. 5 to end catch-and-release Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of Amendment #651, introduced by Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), to S. Con. Res. 5, the 2021 COVID-19 stimulus bill. The amendment would have ended the practice of catch-and-release at the border. The amendment failed 50-50.
2021: Voted in favor of Amdt. 872 to S. Con. Res. 5 to fund border security and interior enforcement Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of Amendment #872, introduced by Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), to S. Con. Res. 5, the 2021 COVID-19 stimulus bill. The amendment would have provided funding for border security and interior enforcement. The amendment failed 50-50.
2022: Voted in favor of S.J. Res. 46 to disapprove of asylum rule Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of S.J.Res. 46 introduced by Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.). The legislation would formally disapprove of the Biden Administration rule to allow asylum officers to grant asylum to illegal border crossers at the border.
2018: Voted against the Schumer-Collins-Rounds-King amendment that would weaken border security Sen. Barrasso voted against an amendment offered by Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Angus King (I-Maine) to the Senate shell bill for granting amnesty to illegal aliens. The Schumer-Collins-Rounds-King amendment would have appropriated some funding for border security, but limited the ability of Customs and Border Patrols role in enforcement. The amendment failed 54-to-45 (needed 60 votes to pass).
2015: Voted in favor of McCain amdt to S. Con. Res. 11 to support expedited removal of illegal aliens Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the McCain amendment to the Senate Budget Resolution, S. Con. Res 11. Sen. McCains original amendment called for the expedited removal of unaccompanied minors from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. Those three countries were the source of the unprecedented border surge along the U.S.-Mexico border during the summer of 2014. But his original amendment also included a provision that would allow for the creation of in-country processing of refugees in those three countries. After NumbersUSA pointed out to Senators that the Central American migrants are not fleeing government persecution, and so do not qualify as refugees, but are instead seeking the benefits of the Presidents rewriting of our immigration law, Sen. McCain removed the in-country processing language, and NumbersUSA supported the amendment. Since the amendment was part of a Budget Resolution, it is non-binding and doesnt force a change in the current policy that allows unaccompanied minors from those three countries to be treated differently than those from Mexico or Canada. If the provision, however, remains in the budget resolution thats eventually approved by both chambers of Congress, it allows appropriators later to set spending levels for the 2016 fiscal year that call for the expedited removal of illegal aliens from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. The amendment passed 58-to-42 (including the support of three Democrats and one Independent also Sens. Joe Donnelly of Indiana, Angus King of Maine, Joe Manchin of West Virginia, and Claire McCaskill of Missouri.
2014: Cosponsored legislation to weaken border security (Cornyn) Sen. Barrasso has cosponsored S. 2611, legislation to allow for the expedited removal of UACs from noncontiguous countries. This legislation also contains key parts of Rep. Mike McCauls Border Security Results Act of 2013, which weakens current law by requiring the Secretary of Defense to submit a plan to gain operational control of only the southern borders within 5 years. Operational control is met when the DHS determines that it has apprehended and turned back at least 90% of those who try to enter the U.S. illegally. Current law requires the Secretary of Defense to secure the entire border, and not just submit a plan.
2013: Voted in favor of amendment to increase border security (Cornyn) Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling the Cornyn amendment to S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act. This amendment would have required 90% operational security along the entire U.S. - Mexico border before illegal aliens could receive citizenship. The amendment failed 43-54 (20 June 2013).
2013: Voted in favor of amendment to ensure border security (Lee) Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the Lee amendment to S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act. The amendment would have required Congress to sign off on DHS implementation of border security strategies and certify that the strategies are operational. As the bill is written, there is no Congressional oversight or approval needed. The amendment failed 39-52, with a 3/5ths vote needed for passage (19 June 2013).
2013: Voted in favor of an amendment to increase border security (Paul) Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling the Paul amendment to S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act. Sen. Pauls amendment would have required Congressional approval before RPI status was given to illegal aliens and required completion of the border fence. The amendment failed 37-61 (19 June 2013).
2013: Voted in favor of amendment to build double-layered border fence (Thune) Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the Thune amendment to S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act. Sen. Thunes amendment would have required the completion of the 350 miles of reinforced, double-layered fencing described in section 102(b)(1)(A) of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 before registered provisional immigrant status could be granted and to require the completion of 700 miles of such fencing before the status of registered provisional immigrants may be adjusted to permanent resident status. The amendment failed 39-54, with a 3/5ths vote necessary for passage (18 June 2013).
2013: Voted in favor of amendment to ensure effective control of the border (Grassley) Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling the Grassley amendment to S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act. The amendment would have prohibited the granting of registered provisional immigrant status until the Secretary has maintained effective control of the borders for 6 months. As written, illegal aliens receive RPI status almost immediately after the bills passage. The amendment failed 43-57 (13 June 2013).
2010: Voted for an amendment that promoted border security and supported Arizonas immigration enforcement law.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the DeMint amendment to H.R. 4213, the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010. The amendment, SA 4464, would have prevented the Department of Justice from participating in any lawsuit against Arizonas immigration enforcement law, SB 1070. Unfortunately, the amendment failed 43-55 on the Senate floor. By supporting this amendment, Sen. Barrasso made it clear that the federal government is not doing enough to secure the border and states should be allowed to assist in the effort.
2010: Voted for an amendment that promoted border security and supported Arizonas immigration enforcement law.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the DeMint amendment to H.R. 4213, the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010. The amendment, SA 4464, would have prevented the Department of Justice from participating in any lawsuit against Arizonas immigration enforcement law, SB 1070. Unfortunately, the amendment failed 43-55 on the Senate floor. By supporting this amendment, Sen. Barrasso made it clear that the federal government is not doing enough to secure the border and states should be allowed to assist in the effort.
2010: Voted for an amendment that would have helped stop the flow of drugs across the border.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the Cornyn amendment to H.R. 4899, the 2010 Emergency Supplemental bill. This amendment would have increased funding for drug enforcement along the Southwest border. The amendment failed 54-43 (a 3/5 vote was required for passage).
2010: Voted for an amendment that would have helped the Justice Department handle immigration-related cases on the border more efficiently.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the Kyl amendment to H.R. 4899, the 2010 Emergency Supplemental bill. This amendment would have increased resources within the Department of Justice to expedite immigration-related cases along the border. The amendment failed 54-44 (a 3/5 vote was required for passage).
2010: Voted for an amendment to increase the number of men and women patrolling the border.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the McCain amendment to H.R. 4899, the 2010 Emergency Supplemental bill. This amendment would have funded the deployment of 6,000 National Guardsmen and women to the U.S. - Mexico border, thereby making it more difficult for human, drug, and arms traffickers to cross the border. The amendment failed 51-46 (a 3/5 vote was required for passage).
2010: Voted for an amendment that would have helped stop the flow of drugs across the border.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the Cornyn amendment to H.R. 4899, the 2010 Emergency Supplemental bill. This amendment would have increased funding for drug enforcement along the Southwest border. The amendment failed 54-43 (a 3/5 vote was required for passage).
2010: Voted for an amendment that would have helped the Justice Department handle immigration-related cases on the border more efficiently.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the Kyl amendment to H.R. 4899, the 2010 Emergency Supplemental bill. This amendment would have increased resources within the Department of Justice to expedite immigration-related cases along the border. The amendment failed 54-44 (a 3/5 vote was required for passage).
2010: Voted for an amendment to increase the number of men and women patrolling the border.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the McCain amendment to H.R. 4899, the 2010 Emergency Supplemental bill. This amendment would have funded the deployment of 6,000 National Guardsmen and women to the U.S. - Mexico border, thereby making it more difficult for human, drug, and arms traffickers to cross the border. The amendment failed 51-46 (a 3/5 vote was required for passage).
2009-2010: Voted for an amendment to complete 700 miles of border fencing.
Sen. Barrasso voted for the DeMint amendment to H.R. 2892, the DHS Appropriations bill., which mandates that the 700 miles of border fencing (which was previously approved and appropriated for) be completed. The DeMint amendment passed 54-44.
2009-2010: Voted for an amendment to complete 700 miles of border fencing.
Sen. Barrasso voted for the DeMint amendment to H.R. 2892, the DHS Appropriations bill., which mandates that the 700 miles of border fencing (which was previously approved and appropriated for) be completed. The DeMint amendment passed 54-44.
2008: Voted for an amendment to increase border security funding and enforcement.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the Sessions Amendment to S CON RES 70. This amendment would increase funding for border security, guarantee 700 miles of fencing, place 6,000 National Guardsmen on the border, and reimburse state and local law enforcement. The amendment passed 61 to 37.
87%
A-
Strengthen Interior Enforcement
104.5 out of 119.5 Total Points
2023: Sponsored S. 160 to require detention of illegal aliens charged with serious crimes
Sen. Barrasso sponsored S. 160, Sarah's Law, introduced by Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). The legislation would require the detention of aliens who are charged with a crime that resulted in the death of serious bodily injury of another person.
2023: Voted in favor of S. Amdt. 110 to H.R. 3476 to mandate E-Verify and criminalize visa overstays
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of S. Amdt. 110, offered by Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) to H.R. 3476. S. Amdt. 110 would have added the House-passed H.R. 2 to the Debt Limit compromise bill. The legislation would require most employers to use E-Verify within two years to ensure that new hires are authorized to work in the United States. The legislation provides additional time for agricultural employers to comply. The bill would also make overstaying a visa a felony crime and allow Unaccompanied Alien Children from noncontiguous countries to be returned to their home countries.
2023: Sponsored S. 333 to remove time limits on the detention of illegal aliens
Sen. Barrasso sponsored S. 333, the Keep Our Communities Safe Act, introduced by Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.). The legislation would allow ICE to detain illegal aliens beyond the current 6 month limit.
2023: Sponsored S. 332 to add penalties for overstaying a visa
Sen. Barrasso sponsored S. 332, the WALL Act, introduced by Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.). The legislation would add a $50 per month penalty to anyone who overstays a visa.
2023: Sponsored S. 348 to block parole for illegal aliens who claim asylum
Sen. Barrasso sponsored S. 348, the Asylum Abuse Reduction Act, introduced by Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.). The legislation would block parole for aliens who arrive illegally and claim asylum and for CBP to refer them to a U.S. embassy or consulate. Further, it would block asylum for aliens who transit a third country in which they would not face persecution.
2020: Voted in favor of H.R 133, the Consolidated Appropriations Act on Senate floor Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of H.R. 133, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, that would weaken interior enforcement and increase foreign worker visas. The bill reduced funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement by $431 million. Further, the bill authorized the Departments of Homeland Security and Labor to increase the number of H-2B visas issued during the 2021 fiscal year.
2019: Voted against H.R. 1158, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, to prevent weakening interior enforcement Sen. Barrasso voted against H.R. 1158, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, that provides funding for the federal government for FY2020. H.R. 1158 effectively prohibits ICE from cooperating with Health and Human Services to detain or remove illegal alien sponsors of unaccompanied alien children (UACs).
2019: Voted in favor of the omnibus spending bill, H.J. Res. 31, to weaken interior enforcement Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of H.J.Res. 31, the omnibus spending bill. The bill reduces the funding for detention beds used by ICE to detain criminal aliens and recent illegal border crossers. It also provides protection from enforcement and removal for the illegal-alien sponsors and their families of unaccompanied alien children who cross the border illegally. Further, it prevents the hiring of any new ICE agents for Enforcement and Removal Operations.
2018: Voted for Sen. Toomeys amendment that would punish sanctuary cities Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of an amendment offered by Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) to the Senate shell bill for granting amnesty to illegal aliens. The Toomey amendment would: 1) block certain Federal grants to sanctuary jurisdictions and reallocate those funds to jurisdictions that uphold Federal law, 2) protect local police from lawsuits for honoring ICE detainer requests, and 3) explicitly allow localities to protect from referral to ICE victims of or witnesses to a crime. The amendment failed 54-to-45 (needed 60 votes to pass).
2018: Voted against the Schumer-Collins-Rounds-King amendment that would weaken interior enforcement Sen. Barrasso voted against an amendment offered by Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Angus King (I-Maine) to the Senate shell bill for granting amnesty to illegal aliens. The Schumer-Collins-Rounds-King amendment would have reprioritized interior enforcement, protecting nearly every illegal alien, including illegal aliens not even in the country yet, for deportation. The amendment failed 54-to-45 (needed 60 votes to pass).
2017: Cosponsored legislation to end sanctuary cities (Toomey) Sen. Barrasso cosponsored S. 87, the Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act. The bill would help end sanctuary policies that aim to protect criminal aliens by defining sanctuary jurisdictions as any state or local jurisdiction that fails to communicate with federal immigration agents and refuses to comply with detainer requests. The bill would also block certain federal funds from sanctuary cities and shield local police from liability when acting on behalf of a federal immigration request.
2016: Voted to begin debate on legislation to end sanctuary cities (Toomey) Sen. Barrasso has voted to invoke cloture on S. 3100, the Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act. The bill would help end sanctuary policies that aim to protect criminal aliens by defining sanctuary jurisdictions as any state or local jurisdiction that fails to communicate with federal immigration agents and refuses to comply with detainer requests. The bill would also block certain federal funds from sanctuary cities and shield local police from liability when acting on behalf of a federal immigration request.
2015: Voted to end Sanctuary Cities in 2015 (Vitter) Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of cloture to open debate on S. 2146, the Stop Sanctuary Policies and Protect Americans Act. This legislation would withhold certain federal funding from jurisdictions that enact sanctuary policies, require the Department of Homeland Security to create a public list of jurisdictions that have sanctuary policies in effect, protect local law enforcement from liability in holding criminal aliens for ICE pick-up, and increase penalties for illegal re-entry into the United States. The bill is sponsored by Sen. David Vitter (R-La.).
2015: Cosponsoring legislation to allow sanctuary cities to continue to ignore the law Sen. Barrasso cosponsored S. 1812, the Improving Cooperation with States and Local Governments and Preventing the Catch and Release of Criminal Aliens Act of 2015 would simply encourage jurisdictions to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement agents rather than penalizing sanctuary cities. The bill would also include mandatory minimum sentencing for illegal aliens who re-enter the United States after being removed (Kates Law), but overall, the bill would do nothing to discourage sanctuary cities.
2013: Voted in favor of an amendment to implement full entry/exit system (Paul) Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling the Paul amendment to S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act. Sen. Pauls amendment would have required implementation of a biometric entry/exit system at all points of entry. The amendment failed 37-61 (19 June 2013).
2013: Voted in favor of amendment to require biometric entry/exit system (Vitter) Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the Vitter amendment to S. 744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act. This amendment would have required the implementation of a biometric entry/exit system (the US-VISIT System) at all ports of entry before illegal aliens could be granted temporary legal status or citizenship. Sen. Vitters amendment failed 36-58, with a 3/5ths vote being required for passage (18 June 2013).
2011: Cosponsored mandatory E-Verify legislation (Grassley) Sen. Barrasso cosponsored S. 1196, the Accountability Through Electronic Verification Act. This legislation would make E-Verify permanent; mandate E-Verify for all federal government agencies, federal contractors, and critical employers as defined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); require employers, contractors, and subcontractors to verify all new employees within one year; increase civil penalties to between $2,500 and $5,000 for each unauthorized alien, $5,000 to $10,000 per alien for second offenses, and $10,000 to $25,000 per alien for subsequent offenses; debar repeat violators from federal contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements; prohibit states from weakening the E-Verify law; protect employers from liability for actions taken in good faith; allow employers to voluntarily run prospective employees through E-Verify prior to employment with the consent of the prospective employee; require all employers to verify all current employees after 3 years; require reverification for employees with limited work permits; require employers to turn information over to DHS for any employee terminated due to receiving a final non-confirmation; stipulate information sharing between SSA (Social Security Administration), DHS, and the IRS (Internal Revenue Service); and impose a 20 year prison term for identity theft. Sen. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) is the bills main sponsor.
2010: Voted for an amendment that promoted interior enforcement and supported Arizonas immigration enforcement law.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the DeMint amendment to H.R. 4213, the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010. The amendment, SA 4464, would have prevented the Department of Justice from participating in any lawsuit against Arizonas immigration enforcement law, SB 1070. Unfortunately, the amendment failed 43-55 on the Senate floor. By supporting this amendment, Sen. Barrasso made it clear that the federal government is not doing enough to prevent illegal aliens from living openly in the United States (including taking American jobs) and states should be allowed to assist in arresting and processing illegal aliens.
2010: Voted for an amendment that promoted interior enforcement and supported Arizonas immigration enforcement law.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the DeMint amendment to H.R. 4213, the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010. The amendment, SA 4464, would have prevented the Department of Justice from participating in any lawsuit against Arizonas immigration enforcement law, SB 1070. Unfortunately, the amendment failed 43-55 on the Senate floor. By supporting this amendment, Sen. Barrasso made it clear that the federal government is not doing enough to prevent illegal aliens from living openly in the United States (including taking American jobs) and states should be allowed to assist in arresting and processing illegal aliens.
2009-2010: Voted against tabling an amendment that would have denied federal funding to states and localities with sanctuary policies for illegal aliens.
Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling an amendment (SA 2630) sponsored by Sen. David Vitter to the Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS) spending bill (H.R. 2847). The Vitter Amendment, if adopted, would have prevented federal funds from going to states and municipalities with sanctuary policies in place that protect illegal aliens, criminal aliens, and potential terrorists. The vote to table the Vitter Amendment passed 61 to 38 (7 October 2009, 5:56 PM), effectively killing the amendment.
2009-2010: Voted against tabling an amendment that would have denied federal funding to states and localities with sanctuary policies for illegal aliens.
Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling an amendment (SA 2630) sponsored by Sen. David Vitter to the Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS) spending bill (H.R. 2847). The Vitter Amendment, if adopted, would have prevented federal funds from going to states and municipalities with sanctuary policies in place that protect illegal aliens, criminal aliens, and potential terrorists. The vote to table the Vitter Amendment passed 61 to 38 (7 October 2009, 5:56 PM), effectively killing the amendment.
2009-2010: Voted for an amendment to permanently reauthorize the E-Verify system.
Sen. Barrasso voted against a motion to table the Sessions amendment to H.R. 2892 (the DHS Appropriations bill) which reestablishes E-Verify permanently, mandates that any business getting a federal contract must run all new hires through E-Verify, and mandates that every existing employee who works on the government contracts must be run through E-Verify. The pre-existing employee provision only applied to the employees actually working on the government contract. The motion to table the Sessions amendment failed 44-53 and the amendment passed with a voice vote. H.R. 2892 was signed into law on October 28, 2009.
2009-2010: Voted for an amendment to permanently reauthorize the E-Verify system.
Sen. Barrasso voted against a motion to table the Sessions amendment to H.R. 2892 (the DHS Appropriations bill) which reestablishes E-Verify permanently, mandates that any business getting a federal contract must run all new hires through E-Verify, and mandates that every existing employee who works on the government contracts must be run through E-Verify. The pre-existing employee provision only applied to the employees actually working on the government contract. The motion to table the Sessions amendment failed 44-53 and the amendment passed with a voice vote. H.R. 2892 was signed into law on October 28, 2009.
2009-2010: Voted for employment verification by supporting a 5 year extension of E-Verify.
Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling Sen. Jeff Sessions amendment to the 2009 Omnibus Spending Bill (H.R. 1105). This amendment would have reauthorized the E-Verify electronic employment eligibility verification program for a period of five years. E-Verify, with a 99.4% accuracy rate, is the most effective tool in keeping illegal aliens out of U.S. jobs. The 5-year extension was an effort to stop the program from being used as a trade-off for various amnesty plans. The Senate leadership decided to table Sessions amendment rather than allow a floor vote. By voting against the tabling of Sen. Sessions amendment, Sen. Barrasso supported the long-term reauthorization of E-Verify. The final vote was 50-47.
2009-2010: Voted for employment verification by supporting a 5 year extension of E-Verify.
Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling Sen. Jeff Sessions amendment to the 2009 Omnibus Spending Bill (H.R. 1105). This amendment would have reauthorized the E-Verify electronic employment eligibility verification program for a period of five years. E-Verify, with a 99.4% accuracy rate, is the most effective tool in keeping illegal aliens out of U.S. jobs. The 5-year extension was an effort to stop the program from being used as a trade-off for various amnesty plans. The Senate leadership decided to table Sessions amendment rather than allow a floor vote. By voting against the tabling of Sen. Sessions amendment, Sen. Barrasso supported the long-term reauthorization of E-Verify. The final vote was 50-47.
2008: Voted against sanctuary policies for illegal aliens.
Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling the Vitter Amendment to S. Con. Res. 70, a concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2009. The Vitter Amendment would have created a reserve fund to ensure that Federal assistance does not go to sanctuary cities which ignore the immigration laws of the United States and create safe havens for illegal aliens and potential terrorists. The vote to table the Vitter Amendment passed 58 to 40, effectively killing the amendment.
2008: Voted for an amendment to increase border security funding and enforcement.
Sen. Barrasso voted in favor of the Sessions Amendment to S CON RES 70. This amendment would increase funding for border security, guarantee 700 miles of fencing, place 6,000 National Guardsmen on the border, and reimburse state and local law enforcement. The amendment passed 61 to 37.
2007-2008: Voted for increasing interior enforcement by funding state and local law enforcement assistance in enforcing federal immigration laws.
Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling the Dole Amendment to H.R. 3093, the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008. The Dole Amendment would have appropriated $75 million to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for general support of state and local law enforcements assistance in the enforcement of Federal immigration laws. The vote to table the amendment passed by a vote of 50 to 42, effectively killing the amendment.
2007-2008: Voted against sanctuary policies for illegal aliens.
Sen. Barrasso voted against tabling the Vitter Amendment to H.R. 3093, the Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS) spending bill. The Vitter Amendment would have denied Federal Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) funding to state and local governments who refuse to share information with Federal immigration authorities. The vote to table the Vitter Amendment passed 52 to 42, effectively killing the amendment.
No Action