Speech #970087042

Taiwan. and the Philippines. Mr. President. under the provisions of this bill. as offspring of U.S. citizens. an Amerasian would be able to apply for immigration to the United States under the first preference (unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens) and fourth preference (married sons and daughters) categories of the Immigration Act. Currently an Amerri.l.an can only apply for a rermancnt resident visa under the sixth preference (skilled and unskilled workers in short supply) and the nonpreference category which guarantees a 5to10 year wait before receiving a visa. The legislation directs the Department of State and the Department of Justice. in cooperation with the host government and private voluntary agencies to determine U.S. paternity. Additionally. the legslation requires the applicant to have a U.S. sponsor. This sponsor would be legally responsible for supporting the applicant for a period of 5 years beginning on the date of the aliens admission for permanent residence. or dur.ng the period beginn:ng on the date of the aliens admission for permanent residence and ending on the date on which the alien becomes 21 years of age. whichever period is longer. The immigrating Amerasian must also comply with all other requirements of the Immigration and Nat.onality Act in order to qualify for admttance to the UnIted States. Mr. President. this legislation responsibly addresses the needs of thousands of Amerasians and the obligation encumbent upon us to meet those needs. The Amerasian would come at no expense to the taxpayer. He or she would be included in the present quota of immigrants from their countries and would not increase the total number of persons coming to this country. They would be required to meet all the requirements of health and character expected from other immigrants. Mr. President.