Washington - U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), today released the following statement after the meeting on immigration reform hosted by President Obama to start discussions regarding our nation's immigration system:

"Today's meeting started us on the right foot down the path toward comprehensive immigration reform legislation. I was encouraged by the president's strong statements both in public and behind closed doors about making this issue a priority and his desire to pass legislation in the near future. The President's decision to charge a member of his cabinet with the creation of a working group composed of key members of Congress that will craft comprehensive legislation is another sign of his commitment. We have the momentum and willingness to get something done this year."

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