Speech #830106804

I also realize that in the past we have been lenient in the treatment of those people who have crossed our borders without proper papers. These people have. in a great number of instances. married American citizens and have children who are also American citizens. When they voluntarily submit themselves to the immigration authorities or are apprehended. they now find they are unable. under Public Law 414. to voluntarily depart to Mexico. but are restricted from ever entering this country to rejoin their Americancitizen spouse and children. The whole principle of our American concept of justice and fair play is to maintain and preserve our family units. Where a person has proven that his only crime was crossing our border illegally. where he has shown willingness to abide by the laws of our country while here. has given love and devotion to his family. and has shown the ability to support them. I feel that we. who make the laws. should allow our consul agents and immigration authorities the discretionary power to adjust these mistakes. Mr. Speaker. I ask that a careful study be given to the inequities which have been found in the immigration act. now that it is being enforced. and that corrective measures be taken at once for the. purpose of righting some of the wrongs which it has caused. With this in mind. I have entered legislation which. in my opinion. will correct some of these inequities. - I will continue to fight to protect our country from those within or without whose intent is to destroy it. but will keep in mind that we must temper justice with mercy and practice the Christian principles which are embodied in our Constitution.