Senator Ruben Gallego hosts press call for his plan on border security and immigration reform

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - U.S. Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) broke down his new border plan looking to ensure border safety.

The plan is built on what Sen. Gallego calls a five-pillar system, starting with securing the border and keeping our communities safe.

Gallego's plan also seeks to "bring immigrants out of the shadows" while tackling hot-button border issues.

Some of these include investing more in border patrol and expanding a legal pathway for immigration.

"Why not just create a responsive, reflective, work permit, that is actually answering to the needs of this economy that would encourage these men and women from around the world to apply to come here legally," Gallego says.

However, Arizona State Senator Tim Dunn from Yuma says he's not in favor of the plan, as he's seen something similar before.

"It's a rebranding of the so-called bipartisan bill in the past they're focusing on the wrong issues we do need to work on the laws that we have on the books," Sen. Dunn said.

Meanwhile, Gallego explains how this plan is different from ones in the past, like Senator Kyrsten Sinema's bipartisan border bill.

"What she didn't cover was the pathway for citizenship for Dreamers, for U.S. spouses, temporary work permits for people that are here in the United States illegally to make sure that they're brought out the shadows," Gallego says.

Gallego’s team provided us a statement showing San Luis Mayor Nieves Riedel's support for the plan.

"I am proud to support Senator Ruben Gallego's immigration plan. This plan offers a thoughtful, pragmatic approach that not only ensures stronger border security but also provides pathways for those who contribute to our communities and economy. In a city like ours, where families cross the border every day, it's essential we have policies that balance safety, opportunity, and compassion. Senator Gallego's plan is exactly what our border communities need," Riedel said.

The framework of the plan is in the early stages, if you would like to check out the plan for yourself click the link HERE.