Speech #1010038362

I am introducing a bill today that would allow Chinese foreign students and exchange visitors immediately to apply for. and. if otherwise eligible. to receive permanent resident status in our country. This bill is identical to a bill introduced June 20. 1989. by Senator SLADE GORTON. Although President Bush and Attorney General Thornburgh have taken initial steps to ensure the temporary safety of the Chinese students here by allowing for sympathetic review of visa extension requests and suspending until June 5. 1990. deportation of any Chinese national in the United States. this bill would allow Chinese students and exchange visitors to remain as residents. It is important to note that this will provide initiatives to the current Chinese leaders to take steps to encourage rather than to try to force these individuals to return. The majority of Chinese students have expressed their desire to return home if conditions permit.