Speech #900104834

Mr. Speaker. I have introduced today a bill to amend section 203(a) (5) of the Immigration and Nationality Act8 United States Code 1153(a)-in order to allow any fifthpreference aliensbrothers and sisters of U.S. citizens and their spouses and childrenwhose visa petition was filed prior to July 1. 1966. to be deemed to be immediate relatives within the meaning of section 201(b) of that act. Mr. Speaker. the Department of State has informed me that approximately 100.000 fifthpreference Italians are awaiting visa issuance. Because of the limitation on immigration from Italy due to the quota system. the Department is only able to process those who have registered for visas under the fifthpreference category on or before March 1. 1955. Italy is the only country experiencing such a large backlog. and it is obvious that the majority of these people will not be able to join their families in this country for many years if the present system is maintained. Almost 2 years ago. I rose in support of H.R. 2580. which became Public Law 89236. the amended Immigration and Nationality Act. At that time. I said: The worst aspect of this (quota) system is that it often prohibits the reuniting of families. Though Congress has been most generous and sympathetic in enacting special legislation to correct these problems. the fact remains that the immigration policy of the United States creates human pressures and personal hardships which need not be created. Although that great piece of legislation became law. inequities still remain. I urge that my bill. and that of my colleague. the gentleman from New York . will receive favorable consideration by the House.