Speech #980146402

Mr. Speaker. I was dismayed when I learned last month of the decision to deny the House of Representatives the opportunity to consider the immigration reform legislation which has already passed the Senate. Even though I oppose certain provisions in the legislation such as blanket amnesty for illegals and the H2 language. and thus will vote against the bill if those are not changed. I do believe this country needs to develop an immigration policy. which we do not at present have. It is obvious that our borders are out of control and it is for this reason that strong support for immigration reform has been espoused by Americans from every walk of life. I would request Mr. Speaker. that this legislation be brought to the floor of the House so we can work our will. To deny this body the opportunity to debate this bill is unfair to the Members of this body. and is most certainly unfair to the American people who want action on this measure now. I would urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to express their support for timely and open debate on this issue by signing the discharge petition which has been filed. It is regrettable that we have to follow this route to bring legislation as important as immigration reform to the floor.*