Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.) have laid out the framework for a comprehensive, bipartisan immigration reform bill that would include tougher border enforcement, creation of biometric Social Security cards and a path to legalization for the nation's estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants.

Border Patrol Agent Munga Wechsler, 26, looks for signs of illegal entry into the U.S. along the border fence near Antelope Wells, N.M. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

The announcement of the plan, which brought immediate praise from President Obama, comes days before a pro-immigration march scheduled for the nation's capital on Sunday.

"It thoughtfully addresses the need to shore up our borders, and demands accountability from both workers who are here illegally and employers who game the system," Obama said in a prepared statement.

"A critical next step will be to translate their framework into a legislative proposal, and for Congress to act at the earliest possible opportunity."

The plan includes four basic pillars, including the creation of biometric Social Security cards to ensure illegal workers cannot get jobs in the future; fulfilling and strengthening border security and interior enforcement; creating a process for admitting temporary workers; and implementing a tough but fair path to legalization for those already here.