Mr. Speaker. the illegal immigration issue is a bipartisan national problem and the House of Representatives has a responsibility to address it. The difficulties posed by illegal immigration is a matter which we cannot wish away simply by ignoring it. The current immigration bill represents a product of 10 years of bipartisan work. Some four administrations and a national task force have left their imprint on the immigration bill. On two occasions the other body. with bipartisan majorities has overwhelmingly passed the measure. Four House committees. with votes from both sides of the aisle. have carefully scrutinized the immigration bill. The major obstacle remaining is consideration by this body. the "Peoples House." Representing the bipartisan spirit behind immigration reform. former President Ford and President Carter in a telegram signed by several others. wrote: This problem is too serious for further delay. The Senate ... has adopted a bill. Now it is time for the House to act. The American people are impatient. The failure to bring this bill up will arouse cynicism about the will of the House to face tough issues. and dangerous feelings of animosity toward all immigrationlegal and illegal alike. It is imperative that this body proceed to enact immigration reform legislation. We cannot allow an issue of such paramount importance to our Nation to be politicized. It is time for this body to act.
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