Mr. President. since the declaration of martial law in Poland in 1981. the United States has provided extended voluntary departure [EVD] status for Polish political refugees. Such status. renewed every 6 months. is necessary to prevent their deportation back to Poland. These 7.000 to 10.000 people are mostly members of Solidarity. who had to flee Poland 6 years ago when martial law was imposed. Most of them have been living in this country for a period of time longer than that required to obtain U.S. citizenship. They have work permits and are legally employed. Many have had children here who are American citizens. The current period of extended voluntary departure status expires at the end of this month. Recently. the State Department recommended the end of this special immigration status. which would allow Polish nationals without valid current visas to be expelled from the United States beginning July 1. Mr. President.
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immigration work permits visas deportation refugees