Congressional leaders have been called by 18 attorneys general to address the need for bipartisan immigration legislation to fix the "dysfunctional" legal immigration system.

The letter by the 18 attorneys general, from Arkansas, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont and the Virgin Islands, was addressed to current U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., Speaker of the House of Representatives John Boehner, R-Ohio, and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.

The attorneys general noted President Barack Obama's immigration executive actions from Nov. 20 are temporary, yet necessary, but cannot suffice as comprehensive immigration reform Congress could pass. Not all of the attorneys general agree with Obama's executive actions, and some "question the authority" of Obama on his actions.

"Regardless, the moment is now upon Congress to seize the opportunity and advance commonsense legislative reforms to our immigration system to secure our borders, support businesses and workers, and promote the safety of our communities," wrote the attorneys general.

According to the letter, the attorneys general acknowledged their first priority is to ensure the safety and security of the U.S. and local communities, and immigration policy, however, should be a federal responsibility.

The attorneys general wrote their support for a law enforcement strategy targeting public safety, serious crimes, safeguards for witnesses and victims and address security implications for "porous" borders.

"A broader reform effort should eventually include a way to accurately, reliably and affordably determine who's permitted to work, ensuring an adequate labor force for a growing economy," the letter stated.

The attorneys general further recommended legislation addressing the needs of businesses, with state input, while protecting the interests of employees. One recommendation is a "responsive and effective" visa system that meets the demands of the country's economy. The bill should also recognize immigrants' economic contributions as consumers, taxpayers and consumers.

"Our immigration policies, where possible, should prioritize keeping families together in order to ensure the most supportive home environment for all the children across our country," the attorneys general added. "Our immigration policies must provide a sensible means to deal with the immigrants who are currently in the country without legal status but are of good character, pay taxes and are committed to continuing to contribute to our society."

Attorneys Generals Letter to Congress on Immigration Reform:

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