Speech #880016020

Mr. President. on February 8 I proposed legislation. on behalf of myself and 34 other Senators. to replace the national origins quota system of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952. Several Members of the House have introduced similar bills. And from across the country there is a growing favorable response to our proposed legislationS. 747from private organizations and individual citizens. As I said in my introductory remarks. the impressive support for S. 747 evidences a growing public awareness of the need for immigration reform. and an evolving consensus as to the kind of reform that is needed. The bill is based on a reasonable and factual approach to the prcblem and need of determining an equitable and useful immigration policy for America. It is the product of diligent and serious thought. It follows the counsel of Americas foremost immigration specialists. It is in line with the estimates of our leading economists. both in government and the private sector. regarding the number and kind of immigrants this countrys economy can profitably absorb. I want to emphasize this latter point. Mr. President. because there is a sincere concern in some quarters over the potential economic impact of our proposed legislation. Unquestionably. the economic aspects of immigration are complexI would be the first to say it. But I would also make it abundantly clear that S. 747 has not been introduced without thoughtful consideration by its sponsors of our economic situation and the hard facts of our complex technological economy. We believe this program would enhance our economic growth. help stimulate our economy. and generate employment opportunities during this decade of development.