Speech #920027022

I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker. the purpose of H.R. 1535 is to exempt any alien over 50 years of age. and who has been living in the United States for 20 or more years at the time an application for naturalization was filed. from the requirement of an understanding of the English language. Section 312 of existing law precludes the naturalization of a person who cannot demonstrate an understanding of the English language. including an ability to read. write. and speak words in ordinary usage in the English language. An exception to this prohibition is made in favor of those who are physically unable to meet the literacy requirements. An additional exception is applied to those who. on December 24. 1952. were over 50 years of age and had been living in the United States for at least 20 years. Such persons qualify for naturalization. notwithstanding an inability to understand. read. write. or speak simple English. The only individuals who can now qualify for the exception on the basis of age and length of residence must be at least 68 years of age and must have been living in the United States for at least 38 years. Other elderly. longtime residents who had not yet reached age 50 years or had not had the required 20 years of residence in 1952 do not qualify for the exemption and will not qualify for it on a future date under existing law.