I would like to take this opportunity to distinguish two things. I think we ought to make it clear that what this amendment is about is not an idea of blanket exoneration or socalled blanket amnesty for those involved. What we are talking about with respect to this amendment to this section of the bill is a legalization program that would require a casebycase adjudication of individual applicants who must individually demonstrate that they meet the equities required by both the bill as well as the Immigration and Nationality Act. During a 5year period of time after obtaining temporary or permanent resident status. these individuals would be disabled from receiving welfare and health benefits other then medical assistance required in the interest of public health. and that section has been further refined by an amendment that we adopted on Friday from the Energy and Commerce Committee. and with respect to the aged. blind. and disabled. With that in mind.
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Immigration