President. as a cosponsor of this measure. I want to voice my approval and urge its speedy passage. The report clearly indicates the special problem of the more than 240.000 Cuban refugees who have entered this country since the advent of the Castro regime. Many came as refugees and desire to become citizens. but they. as well as other citizens of Western Hemisphere nations are precluded from adjusting their status to permanent resident while in this country. While others can return to their country of origin for appropriate processing. Cubans cannot return. and even if they could. there is no U.S. Embassy In their country to issue the correct visa. For many Cubans. this has meant a costly and inconvenient trip outside the United Statesusually to Canada or Mexicowhere the required documents can be obtained. This measure will relieve them of that burden and will facilitate their applications for citizenship. Last year. when the Congress revised the Immigration and Nationality Act. I proposed an amendment similar to this bill which would have allowed adjustment of status in the United States. My amendment was accepted in committee and was passed by the Senate. but was lost in conference. The vast majority of these Cuban refugees have already made a contribution to our Nation in the form of skills. education. and initiative. This bill will assure them the opportunity to continue their new lives in freedom and security.
Keywords matched
Immigration visa refugees