Speech #980210439

I thank the gentleman for yielding. Second. in addition. a first conviction for knowingly hiring an illegal alien results in only recordkeeping sanctions to an employer. not a criminal penalty. It is only after the second conviction for knowingly hiring an illegal alien that the penalties apply. The first bite at the apple is free. Third. contrary to what many might believe. the bill does not provide amnesty for illegal aliens. No alien who arrived here after January 1. 1982. would be allowed any status under this bill. Illegal aliens who have been in the United States prior to the date would be able to become permanent residents only after a screening by the INS. a legalization process. Nobody waves a magic wand and grants anybody amnesty. Aliens would be eligible if they have not been convicted of a felony. at least three misdemeanors. if they have not persecuted others because of race. religions. nationality or political view. if they are not subversives or drug users. and if they are of good moral character. As approved by the committee. therefore. the bill requires illegal aliens to have contributed positively to our society before being eligible for legalization.