Speech #980219587

This takes the burden off the employer. Most important. this approach eliminates any basis for discrimination against Hispanics or others who may appear to be of foreign extraction. The combination of employer sanctions and telephone verification will go a long way toward reducing the incentives for illegal immigration. and I strongly support the inclusion of these provisions in the immigration reform package. Mr. Chairman. the Immigration Reform and Control Act is one of the most controversial pieces of legislation considered by this Congress. It is a comprehensive bill which touches on a number of sensitive issues. Indeed. every major provision of the bill is the subject of intense controversy. There is probably not a Member of Congress who would not like to see the bill changed in some respect. But we should not let this controversy keep us from taking the difficult steps necessary to bring some sense and order to an immigration system that is out of control. Consensus on this issue is simply not possible. I strongly supported some key amendments to the bill which failed. and I opposed some amendments which were adopted. Still. I believe H.R. 1510. as amended. represents a fair balance of interests. The longer we wait to deal with the immigration dilemma. the worse the problem will becomeand the more difficult it will be to enact reasonable reforms. I urge my colleagues to take advantage of this opportunity to support this equitable and urgently needed legislation.e