Tom Rooney: DREAM Act Will 'Undermine Rule of Law'

Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney weighed in on Thursday regarding the House passing the DREAM Act. Rooney voted againstthe measure which is now heading to the Senate.

Immigration reform must start with securing our borders, upholding the law, and rewarding those who follow the rules, said Rooney. The DREAM Act would provide an incentive for individuals to come here illegally, undermine the rule of law, and move rule-breakers to the front of the line.

I strongly oppose provisions that would make students who are here illegally eligible for in-state tuition breaks. Taxpayer money should absolutely not subsidize the higher education of illegal immigrants, added Rooney, who is considering running against Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012. While I do not support the DREAM Act, I would be willing to consider a stand-alone bill that would grant legal residence status to anyone who puts on the uniform and serves in the U.S. military.