The following recent CNN clip features Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah) and Rep. Michael Honda (D-California) debating the need for legislation that would end lengthy separations of loved ones. Honda introduced the Reuniting Familes Act this month, arguing that this legislation "would give us a good head of steam" moving towards comprehensive reform. Chaffetz argues that the bill, which would make it easier for immigrants to obtain visas, is badly timed given the number of Americans currently struggling and out of work due to the recession.

The bill also offers same-sex partners equal protection and access to visas for the purpose of reunification, an addition which both Congressmen debate in this clip.

While I believe family reunification is a key aspect of reform, I would really like to see this bundled with other pieces of legislation, such as AgJobs and the DREAM Act, so that immigration reform is not addressed in a piecemeal way.

Just this past Friday, President Obama reiterated the need for comprehensive reform as the keynote speaker at the Esperanza Prayer Breakfast. But the big question remain, when and how will it happen? As a single bulk piece of legislation, which has yet to surface, or as many smaller bills which are currently on the table but which do not address all the critical pieces of comprehensive reform?

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