John Boehner Backs Eric Cantor Bill Offering Citizenship To Children Brought To U.S. Illegally

By ERICA WERNER, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON — House Speaker John Boehner says legislation offering citizenship to immigrants brought illegally to the U.S. as children is "about basic fairness."

The Ohio Republican says many House Republicans believe that the issue needs to be addressed. Majority Leader Eric Cantor is working on a bill dealing with immigrants brought as kids, and Boehner's endorsement suggests it's likely to see House action.

Boehner's comments at a news conference Wednesday come as the House GOP struggles for a way forward on immigration. Boehner has rejected taking up a comprehensive Senate-passed bill that offers citizenship to the 11 million immigrants already here illegally. Instead he has said the House will proceed with a step-by-step approach.

That could include bills on border security and workplace enforcement, as well as Cantor's legislation for kids.