For a Congress that was already overwhelmed and overloaded with critically important policy issues, what’s the harm of throwing one more divisive and complex problem into the mix. The “Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America’s Security & Prosperity Act of 2009” was introduced yesterday as another stab at settling the question of some 10 million illegal immigrants currently living and working in the U.S. Among other features, the bill would strengthen border security, created a streamlined employment verification system and the always controversial “earned legalization program.” Does the bill have a chance, and can Congress give its proper attention to immigration reform?

Guests:
Kitty Felde, KPCC's Washington correspondent

Jeanne Butterfield, senior advisor to the National Immigration Forum, which leads the Reform Immigration for America Campaign, a coalition of more than 500 groups.

Rep. Jeff Flake, R-Arizona’s 6th District; member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs & co-sponsor of the last Congressional attempt at immigration reform