Immigration

Jim Costa, the proud grandson of Portuguese immigrants, understands firsthand the hopes and challenges faced by those who come to America seeking a better life. Growing up in the San Joaquin Valley, he saw how immigrants helped build and sustain the region’s economy, especially in agriculture. That’s why Costa has dedicated his career to fighting for an immigration system that reflects both our national values and the realities of the Valley.

Costa has been a leading voice for comprehensive immigration reform, pushing for bipartisan solutions that strengthen our borders while providing a fair, humane path to citizenship. As a senior member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, he has worked closely with his colleagues to advocate for policies that keep families together, protect Dreamers, and recognize the vital role immigrants play in our communities.

Immigration Reform

Eleven years after President Obama created DACA, Dreamers have become vital leaders in our communities, yet many still face uncertainty about their future. A co-sponsor of the American Dream and Promise Act, Costa has consistently voted and pushed to protect Dreamers, ensuring they can live, work, and contribute to the only home they've ever known.

Recognizing the unique needs of the Valley’s agricultural workforce, Costa co-authored and helped pass the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. This landmark bill provides a path to legal status for undocumented farmworkers, many of whom have labored in the fields for decades to feed America. It also modernizes the H-2A visa system, ensuring farms in the Valley have a stable, legal workforce to sustain the region’s economy.

Costa has also backed broader efforts to reform our outdated immigration system. He co-sponsored the Renewing Immigration Provisions of the Immigration Act of 1929, which would update the registry date, allowing long-term, law-abiding immigrants to apply for legal status. Additionally, Costa supports the Repatriate Our Patriots Act, which helps deported veterans return to the U.S. and access the benefits they earned through military service. 

Border Security

For years, the Southern border has faced real challenges that demand practical, lasting solutions. Jim Costa supports smart border security that keeps our nation safe while reflecting our nation's values. He believes in giving Border Patrol the resources they need—advanced technology, increased staffing, and targeted enforcement, not wasteful walls. Through the appropriations process, he has voted to increase funding to hire more Border Patrol agents and invest in modern surveillance and detection systems.

In 2024, Costa co-led bipartisan legislation in the House to strengthen border security, streamline the immigration system, and combat fentanyl trafficking. Though Senate Republicans blocked the bill, Costa continues to push for common-sense reforms that secure the border, reduce immigration backlogs, and protect communities from dangerous narcotics. As a member of the House Democrats’ Border Security Task Force, he remains committed to delivering real results, not political gridlock.