Speech #1010035949

This limited definition also passed the Senate in 1983. These measures passed because Senators realized that we must set priorities. As Senators KENNEDY and SimPSON have stated on several occasions. we should give priority to those immigrants who are the closest family members to American citizens. I agree. for example. that spouses and children of permanent residents should be given priority over brothersinlaw. That is why my bill keeps a limited definition of the fifth preference. Another reason to limit the fifth preference is because there are tremendous backlogs of immigrants in this category. This causes long delaysup to 20 years in some cases. As Senator KENNEDY correctly states. this creates "an illusory and false hope of family reunification." These delays also foster Illegal immigration. Mr. President. these are the major points of my bill. I ask unanimous consent that two summaries of the bill be included in the REcORD at the conclusion of my remarks. Mr. President. as we debate the issue of legal immigration. we must keep one fundamental concept in mindfor America to remain a great country. we must have an immigration policy based on the needs of our country and focused on what is in the best interest of the Nation as a whole.