House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, said Tuesday he is working with Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, on legislation that could help break a House Republican standoff over immigration and border security.
According to Politico, Jordan told reporters he has been discussing whether to use a bill targeting sanctuary cities that has already cleared the House Judiciary Committee as the foundation for a package incorporating provisions sought by Roy.
"I think that's just good policy and would be helpful, so we're looking at that," Jordan said.
Roy has emerged as one of the leading conservatives pressing House Republican leaders to move tougher immigration legislation before allowing other business to proceed.
In a statement Tuesday, Roy's office said, "Republicans MUST do what we said we would do.
"Codify border security. PAUSE immigration. End birthright. SAVE America. Deliver—or watch American sovereignty slip away."
The negotiations come as House Republicans attempt to resolve weeks of internal disagreements that have slowed action on the House floor.
The House was expected to vote Tuesday on a procedural measure that would allow floor business to resume.
Jordan's proposal would build on legislation aimed at restricting sanctuary cities while adding portions of the immigration package backed by Roy.
It remained unclear whether the approach would satisfy Roy, who said as recently as Monday that he was not convinced House leaders had adequately addressed his concerns.
Republican leaders have been trying to find a compromise that can unite conservatives seeking tougher immigration enforcement and members who want additional provisions, including an expanded agricultural guest worker program.
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., acknowledged Tuesday that Republicans have not yet reached agreement.
"We're not in agreement on the next approach" to immigration, Scalise said, adding that discussions are continuing.
The immigration negotiations follow progress on a separate dispute involving the SAVE America Act.
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., indicated Monday she would no longer oppose moving House business forward after Republican leaders agreed to attach the election integrity measure to major legislation sent to the Senate this year.
Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo., who had also expressed concerns, said he planned to support reopening the House floor because of what he described as "different dynamics" this week.