Speech #1040190525

I know firsthand. I have watched them. They overstay their visitor visas and they abuse our legal immigration system. Our current immigration laws send the wrong message to individuals that would break our laws: "If at first you dont succeed. try. try again to receive the fruits of our society." This amendment is going to bring honesty and integrity back to the U.S. immigration laws. Simply put. "If you dont play by the rules. then ynu dont get to play at all. No more warnings. no more slaps on the wrist. When we catch you. youre gone." Never again will those who break the law be rewarded with a temporary or immigrant visa. No longer will they be able to enjoy the benefits of our hardworking citizens and the ones they are entitled to. Not 1 year later. not 10 years later. "One strike and youre out." This amendment will return a strong sense of law and order to the U.S. immigration law. It will give those who choose to play by the rules a sense of dignity. If we are to remain true to our heritage. we must ensure that immigration is once again seen as a noble experience that enriches America both economically and socially rather than be demeaned by criminality and deceit. That means denying the benefits of our society to those who break our immigration laws while rewarding the honesty and patience of hundreds of thousands of others with the opportunity to obtain their goal. a chance to live the American dream. Mr. Chairman.