The changes which I am proposing would resolve this issue. The joint resolution I am introducing would rewrite the citizenship clause to ensure that the citizenship of a person born in the United States is restricted to. and dependent upon. the citizenship or legal resident status of his or her mother. The companion bill would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for the same rule of citizenship. These changes are to apply prospectively. that is. to persons born after the date of ratification. in order to avoid confusion. uncertainty. and litigation. In my opinion. this legislation will bring an element of reality and fairness to Americas modern immigration policies. bringing them In line with the policies of most other nations. It will satisfy the concerns of the Framers and modern critics of immigration law that American citizenship for all individuals born in the United States will be available to only those born to at least one parentthe motherwho is a citizen or a legal resident of this country. Thus. it should relieve the growing angry dissent among our citizens who disapprove of the growing numbers of newly arrived foreigners in their midst and resent the granting of benefits and services supported by their taxes to those immigrants who they suspect came to this country merely in order to have children and steal their jobs. By restoring equity and fairness. this legislation could promote broader public acceptance of our generous immigration laws and to those who benefit from them. Mr. Speaker.
Identified stereotypes
Immigrants are coming to the country merely to have children and steal jobs.