Mr. Speaker. historically. the United States has generally opened Its arms and welcomed immigrants from all parts of the world. Our very society is built upon the energies. hopes. and skills of many peoples who came to these shores in search of peace and a democratic way of life. We use the term "melting pot" to describe the merging of ancestry that has taken place here in this country. Most of us can proudly claim heritage from several different lands. In 1965. the Congress of the United States passed. and the President signed. legislation which eliminated the discriminatory national origin quota system. Unfortunately. one section. 212(a) (14). relating to labor certification. was also changed though in a way which adversely affects the ability of new immigrants. specifically skilled and unskilled labor. to enter this "nation of immigrants." The law placed the burden of proof for entry on the individual immigrant. This provision has unwisely prevented or delayed the entry of otherwise worthy immigrants. It is a restrictive clause which is not consistent with our basic heritage. The pre1965 labor provision placed the burden of proof squarely on the shoulders of the Secretary of Labor. This procedure. I hold. is more consistent with the basic American practice of welcoming new immigrants. The provision I introduce today is similar but not the same as this former labor law. It provides a flexible entry procedure for immigrants. Yet. it also adequately protects American labor standards. I urge my colleagues to give this amendment their earnest consideration.
Keywords matched
immigrant immigrants national origin quota