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Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano weighed in on the growing chatter in some Republicans circles about the possibility of trying to change the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which grants American citizenship to those born in the United States.

"I have to tell you I am surprised to say the least that a discussion is being had about amending the United States Constitution before we even get to the table on amending the statutes that actually carry out immigration policy," Napolitano said at a White House briefing on Friday. "Any talk of amending the Constitution is just wrong."

Napolitano's blunt statement came as she was addressing reporters alongside White House press secretary Robert Gibbs. They appeared together to tout a border security bill that President Obama signed into law earlier on Friday, which allocates $600 million for enhanced technology, information sharing, and law enforcement activities along the border with Mexico.

"What's significant about this bill, in addition to its contents, is that it passed something with bipartisan support that gives us the resources to continue efforts that were well under way," Napolitano said. "It demonstrates that the border is not and should not be a political issue. It is a matter of national security, in which we all-both parties-have a stake."

But the bill did not address more controversial immigration topics, including a pathway to citizenship for illegal aliens who are already in the United States.

Gibbs appeared eager to take up once again the topic of "comprehensive immigration reform," and he challenged leaders from both parties to find common ground on a hot-button debate that has become increasingly polarized in recent months.

"Nothing is going to happen on this issue in a comprehensive way that only involves one party or one person," Gibbs said. "We will get comprehensive immigration reform when we go back to a time in which both Democrats and Republicans are willing to be leaders."

Gibbs began the press briefing by announcing that President Obama will travel to New Orleans on August 29 to mark the five-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

The First Family is scheduled to spend just over 24 hours in the Florida panhandle this weekend to enjoy some down time together while promoting tourism in the region afflicted by the BP oil spill.