Speech #1000151618

Mr. Speaker. today I am introducing legislation to improve and reform the system of legal immigration in the United States. Together with my colleague. the distinguished Senator from Wyoming. Mr. SIMPSON. who is introducing a virtually identical measure in the Senate. I am calling for much needed changes in the method by which our Nation promotes and controls immigration from all nations in the world to our country. Last year. Congress enacted sweeping and crucial legislation to control illegal immigration when it passed the Immigration Reform and Control Act. But the task of reforming our outdated immigration laws is only partly completed. It is essential that we expeditiously address the issues of legal immigration as well. Under IRCA. we have finally begun to gain essential control over our borders. but this makes all the more compelling the need to improve and strengthen the system by which we admit legal immigrants. The legislation we are introducing in the House and Senate today is a positive approach to a complicated issue. Our bill will simultaneously increase the opportunities for wouldbe immigrants and impose more order on the system which controls the influx of new citizens. America has thrived on the spark and Imagination of immigrants from all nations of the world and will continue to do so as long as we recognize the need to continually perfect the system of immigration laws to ensure that the process is fair and responsive to our national needs. The legislation Senator SiMPSON and I are introducing today is a major step in that direction. Our legislation focuses on several key areas. Above all. we are seeking to balance the emphasis of the preference system upon which immigration eligibility is determined. The outdated immigration laws in effect today are heavily weighted in favor of family ties. so much so that fewer than 1 in 10 of all new immigrants are admitted on the basis of acquired characteristics such as job skills and ability to contribute to our economy. The effect of this system is that individuals from certain nations find it almost impossible to immigrate to the United States. The formula needs to be reformed to allow greater diversity and improved opportunity for individuals who will clearly contribute to our national interest. The approach outlined in the SimpsonSchumrr legislation is based upon fairness and calls for a rational immigration policy that retains the important role of family unity. but also expands the opportunities for wouldbe Immigrants who have skills and abilities to offer this country. The legislation is designed. through a carefully constructed "point system." to select immigrants whose job skills and educational background are in particular demand to meet the needs of the U.S. job market.