Speech #960187148

The Los Angeles Times on December 3 called for changing the language of section 212(a) (4) which bars entry to suspected homosexuals. I agree with the Los Angeles Times that the law should be changed. The bill I am introducing will repeal the objectionable language from section 212(a) (4) of the Immigration and Nationality Act and will reconstitute new language applying to aliens afflicted with psychopathic personality or mental defect so as to make patently clear that homosexuality per se shall not be cause for denying entry to aliens wishing to visit or seeking to immigrate to the United States. I urge my colleagues to study my proposal carefully in the context of section 212(a) of the immigration statute and in view of the practical difficulties of enforcing such a law at our borders and ports of entry. I am convinced my colleagues will reach the same conclusion that I have that fairness and practical considerations require the change I am proposing. Simple fairness demands that we put an end to a form of discrimination that not only is intellectually unsound and medically unjustifiable but which also violates traditional American respect for the right of privacy and the dignity of the individual.