Speech #970019870

I strongly believe that our national policy must be realistic. it must acknowledge the existence of the labor supply and demand needs of both the Mexican nationals and the American farmers and businessmen. A successful program must improve the existing "unofficial" system. To insure that the needs of both our countries are met. the Guest Worker Act of 1981 sets up a Bilateral Advisory Commission. composed of Mexican and American officials. that would consult with and advise the Attorney Generaland perhaps the Secretary of Laborin establishing the regulations for the temporary worker visa program. During the next 5 years. Mexico will be making many economic advancements. As the current economic disparity lessens we need a legal. organized program to regulate and humanize the existing "underground" system of undocumented worker migration. I am proposing that each year. for 5 years. temporary worker visas be issued for up to 1 million qualified Mexican national applicants who post a $500 bond or the equivalent undertaking. Since the bond will be redeemable with interest at the expiration of 180 days. it will serve as an additional incentive to return to Mexico. One of the lessons to be learned from past programs is that. by limiting the worker to one prearranged place of employment. there was the temptation to abuse fundamental human and financial rights.