Speech #1020096569

This principle was recognized in this country prior to the adoption of the 14th amendment to the Constitution of the United States which embodies it. Because times have changed. today I am Introducing legislation to restrict citizenship merely by virtue of birth In the United States to persons born of mothers with legal resident status. I propose a constitutional amendment which would repeal the citizenship clauses of the 14th amendment. together with a bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to bring our Immigration laws In line with this proposed new rule of citizenship. This change In our laws would bring the United States closer In line with the vast majority of nations which base citizenship on the line of descent doctrine. which depends on the nationality of the parents. As a consequence. our country will be better able to pursue more sensible and humane policies to deal with the flood of illegal Immigration Into this country and the serious problems this flood has caused which the framers of the 14th amendment could not have foreseen. Mr. Speaker. for almost two centuries American citizenship has been governed by rules based upon the place of birth rather than the line of descent. The common law principle of jus sol Is codified in section 1 of the 14th amendment which provides: "All persons born or naturalized in the United States. and subject to the jurisdiction thereof. are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside." By contrast. citizenship in England. France. Germany.