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Washington, D.C.—“We are disappointed in the Senate’s failure to continue to move the immigration debate forward,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, chief executive officer of �鶹��ý of America (�鶹��ý) in responding to the news that the immigration reform legislation has been withdrawn from consideration.

“�鶹��ý has long been engaged on the issue of passing comprehensive immigration reform, and we are confident that it is the best approach to securing our borders and strengthening our nation’s economy,” continued Sandherr.

�鶹��ý continues to believe that any legislation should include: a workable, reliable employment verification process; penalties for employers that are proportionate to the violation; a meaningful guest worker program; avoidance of a new debarment process for immigration violations; a path to legal status for illegal immigrants who are working and contributing to society; and no employer liability for the hiring violations of subcontractors or vendors.

According to a recent CBS/New York Times poll, immigration ranks top among the most important problems facing the U.S. today.

Sandherr added, “We have asked our elected leaders to take on difficult issues, like immigration reform, and we hope that they will rise to the challenge, do what is right for the nation and continue to work on a bill.”

�鶹��ý of America (�鶹��ý) is the largest and oldest national construction trade association in the United States. �鶹��ý represents more than 32,000 firms, including 7,000 of America’s leading general contractors, and over 11,000 specialty-contracting firms. More than 13,000 service providers and suppliers are associated with �鶹��ý through a nationwide network of chapters. Visit the �鶹��ý Web site at . �鶹��ý members are "Building Your Quality of Life.”