That is where the creativity has come from. and that is why it is key that we eliminate the mandates that are imposed. and that is exactly what this legislation does. There is a very important other item that tragically this President has failed to address. but it is one that he has indicated that he would address. as we look at this issue of welfare reform. It has to do with the problem of illegal immigration. a very serious problem in California. and we found most recently in a wide range of other States from concern that has come forward from Members from around the country. Let me take just a moment. Mr. Speaker. to look at the record that this President has had on thp issue of illegal immigration. He opposed Proposition 187. strongly opposed that legislation. Two weeks ago he vetoed legislation that would have provided $3.5 billion to keep open the California hospitals that have been swamped by illegal immigrants. Just this week he vetoed funding to put 1.000 new INS guards on the border and provide over $280 million to California prisons swelled by illegal immigrant felons. If he vetoes this bill. Mr. Speaker. he will ensure that illegal immigrants continue to qualify for Federal and State welfare programs. It is a very sad record on the issue of illegal immigration. He has an opportunity. by signing this bill. to end welfare as we know it and. in fact. reverse his record on the issue of illegal immigration. I urge support of this rule. and I urge support of this conference report so that we can. in fact. end welfare as we know it.
Keywords matched
illegal immigrants illegal immigration illegal immigrant