Bush touches on immigration issues

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Strengthening U.S. borders and money for the Immigration and Customs Enforcement were sought by President George Bush in his State of the Union address Monday.

Bush said he would include a Southwest Border Enforcement Initiative in his 2009 budget, which would provide $100 million to help address the increased crime and immigration cases along the southwest border.

He reviewed the Department of Homeland Security's accomplishments, including increased funding for enforcement, expanding both the number of border agents and miles of fencing.

Bush also noted Immigration and Customs Enforcement had toughened penalties for employers who knowingly hire illegal aliens, as well as other enforcement initiatives.

To help alleviate the border issue, Bush also urged consideration of a plan to assist workers coming into the country legally and on a temporary basis.

"Illegal immigration is complicated, but it can be resolved," Bush said in excerpts released by the White House prior to his remarks. "And it must be resolved in a way that upholds both out laws and our highest ideals."