Speech #970098253

On the other hand. I have serious reservations with regard to some aspects of the more recent additions to the proposal that I am introducing today. These include: Title I which establishes a limited legalization program for undocumented aliens. Title IV which substantially revises the procedures for review of asylum requests and exclusion orders. Title VI which establishes a special temporary worker program for Mexico. Title VII which allows the President to declare an immigration emergency in certain circumstances. and Title X which authorizes the President to intercept vessels and to make arrangements with other countries to prevent illegal immigration to the United States. I do not question the need for remedial legislation to respond to immigration emergencies such as the Cuban boatlift which took place last year. However. I do believe that any legislation providing the President with unprecedented emergency powers must be carefully studied by the Congress. In this regard. I can assure my colleagues that this entire legislative package will be closely scrutinized by the Judiciary Committee to insure that it is constitutional and incorporates a proper governmental response to the uncontrolled immigration that we are experiencing along the Southwest border and more recently from countries of the Caribbean. I am gratified that the Reagan administration has presented its legislative program to deal with these vexing issues which has continously occupied the attention of my colleagues in the House and on the committee for a long period of time. I am hopeful that the committee will give both cautious and careful consideration to the provisions contained in this bill so that Congress can develop a reasonable. realistic. and humane immigration policy during the 97th Congress.*