Speech #870300232

This bill is an amended version of the companion bill I filed dealing with the same subject matter. an act to facilitate the entry of alien skilled specialists and certain relatives of U.S. citizens. and other purposes. as amended. The services of these skilled aliens is urgently needed and will result in reaping untold benefits to our Nation. I understand that the bill as amended. would provide nonquota status for fourth preference quota immigrants registered on a consular waiting list under a priority date earlier than March 31. 1954. The fourth preference classification of quota immigrants includes brothers. sisters. married sons. or married daughters of U.S. citizens and their accompanying spouses and children. As amended. the cutoff date is moved back to March 31. 1954. and it is estimated that approximately 16.000 aliens will benefit under this amended provision. Section 2 of the bill would provide nonquota status for certain skilled specialists whose services have been determined by the Attorney General to be urgently needed. This would affect another few thousand aliens and allow for their lawful entiy into the United States of America. Section 4 of the bill. as amended would amend section 249 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. as amended66 Stat. 219to permit the creation of a record of lawful admission for permanent residence in cases of aliens who entered the United States prior to December 24. 1952. Under existing law such an adjustment may be made in cases of aliens who entered the United States of America prior to June 28. 1940. This bill liberalizes the Immigration Act and will allow entry of approximately 25.000 persons and will aid in bringing together and uniting families that have been separated as the result of our present laws. It will prove helpful to many who have relatives in Italy. Portugal. and Greece. I support the bill and I will continue to fight for the liberalization of our Immigration laws in order that justice will prevail. I also wish to commend the distinguished gentleman from Pennsylvania . the Member from New Jersey. the Honorable DOMINICK V. DANIELS. and the senior Senator from Rhode Island for thei:: successful efforts in bringing about the enactment of this much needed legisla.tion.