Speech #970009390

Mr. Speaker. the report of the Select Commission on Immigration and Refugee Policy. created by the Congress. constitutes the first major effort by a joint Congressional/Presidential Commission to examine and overhaul the immigration laws of the United States since 1911. Historically. such reports have generated a major rethinking in Congress and across the country of our Nations immigration laws. I expect this report will do the same. In holding field hearings around the country. the Select Commission has performed a vital service. Not only have these hearings increased public awareness of the numerous problems tied to our immigration and refugee policies. but they have also provided a mechanism for receiving broad citizen participation in the possible solution of those problems. As chairman of the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Immigration. Refugees. and International Law. I can assure the members of the Commission. the American people. and peoples of the world who are interested in this important subject that our subcommittee will conduct full and complete hearings on the report so that all points of view can be taken into account. I expect to work closely with my House colleagues. with Members of the Senate. with President Reagan and members of his administration in examining this countrys present immigration and refugee policies in light of the Commission report. Changes in our present laws to improve the present system can only come about through the cooperation of all interested parties. There can be no doubt about the significance of immigration and refugee