Speech #610081255

I ask where can that power be pointed to in the Constitution of the Government? I claim that it is unfortunate to bring up an inflammable moral question like this under these circumstances. with the air surcharged. as it is. throughout the whole country. by radical reform. that it is unfortunate that these great fundamental propositions should come up for discussion on this kind of a question. I differ with the gentleman from Tennessee . who saiId that the immigration laws were not sufficient and were not being enforced. I say. Mr. Speaker. that there is now a federal remedy on that subject within the scope of federal autborityour control of immigration. This is no new subject. In 1875 the first act of Congress relative to the insportation of women for immoral purposes was enacted by Congress. and from that date to this the most strenuous and successful efforts have been made by amendments ahd additions to the immigration laws of this country. until now the efficienicy of these lawsand I do not hesitate to say it. I am not a member of that committeebut the efficient administration of these immigration laws has gradually decreased the evil that is complained of. The number of alien women or girls for immoral purposes is rapidly being decreased. Why. they refer to the distinguished attorney of Chicago.