Speech #970223933

In fact. it was contained in the amendments the administration forwarded to the subcommittee during our markup of the bill. In addition. the Select Commission voted almost unanimously15 to 1in support of the provisions of this amendment. Let me read from the Commissions discussion of its recommendation on continuing the present system where some immigrants are numerically limited but certain otherssuch as immediate relativesare exempt: Proposals have been made to the Commission which maintain that regardless of what number is set. all immigrants and refugees should be admitted under a total. fixed ceiling. with adjustments made within the immigrant categories as a result of any fluctuations in the number of refugee admissions each year. While attracted by the fact that a firm ceiling on total numbers of immigrants would facilitate planning. the Commission. nevertheless. concludes that the present systemunder which a varying number of refugees may be admitted subject to Presidential/congressional consultation. and the immediate relatives of U.S. citizens and certain special immigrants are admitted outside of any numerical limitationprovides the proper flexibility to meet U.S. needs. Therefore. while favoring numerical limits on most groups of immigrants. the Commission recommends that. to allow for flexibility in refugee. immediate relative and special immigrant admissions. total U.S. immigrant and refugee admissions be subject to no total cap or ceiling. Mr. President.