Speech #920209418

Shocked by the treatment of Jews in the Soviet Union and realizing that many of these people are seeking a haven from persecution. last May I introduced the Soviet Jews Relief Act of 1971. H.R. 8488. This measure would authorize 30.000 special immigrant visas for Soviet Jews who are heads of households. Their spouses and children would be issued visas to emigrate to the United States without numerical limitation. Before then Commerce Secretary Stans visited the Soviet Union in November. I signed a telegram to him urging that he impress upon Soviet officials the deep concern of the American people for the plight of Jews in the Soviet Union. The telegram also called on Secretary Stans to urge that the U.S.S.R. guarantee to Soviet citizens the right to practice their religion and preserve their traditions without fear of reprisal or threat of harm. and to emigrate to other lands if they desire to do so. In February of this year. I cosponsored the Soviet Refugee Assistance Act of 1972. H.R. 13022. which would authorize $85 million for assistance to Soviet Jewish refugees resettling in Israel. It is estimated that Israel will receive 40.000 to 60.000 new refugees this year from the U.S.S.R. alone. placing a severe burden on the already strained Israeli economy. President Nixon will have a significant opportunity to urge Soviet leaders to reverse their repressive policies during his forthcoming visit in Moscow. For this reason.