Speech #900312048

To attain the goals envisioned. H.R. 15450 contains carefully drawn administrative safeguards to preclude abuse of the special status created by the bill. The investigative services of both the Immigration and Naturalization Service and the Department of State can and will carefully screen both prospective entrants and religious organizations. In order to insure the dedication of the prospective religious worker. the bill requires that he have worked as a missionary. nun. brother. or sister continuously for at least 2 years Immediately prior to seeking admission and that he enters this country solely to continue service in such capacity. Our consular officials abroad are fully able to investigate the credentials of the potential entrants. In addition. the bill provides that the alien can be admitted only if requested by a bona fide religious organization. which organization Is found to be in need of such a trained person. That these preliminary determinations can insure both efficient and fair administration of the program and attainment of the purposes of the bill is reflected by the prior experience with ministers of religion under section 101(a) (27) (D) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. and with missionaries. brothers. nuns. and sisters under section 317 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Mr. Speaker.