I do oppose the Graham amendment. This amendment would reopen a substantial loophole in our nationaland traditionalimmigration policy. Again. let me emphasize that before any prospective immigrant Is approved to come to the United States. that newcomer must demonstrate that he or she is "not likely to become a public charge." That means that the newcomer will never. never. never use welfareany welfare at all. That is what the law says. and that has been part of our immigration law since 1882. Well. despite this stated policy. more than 20 percent of all immigrant households receive public assistance. There is a disconnect here between our Nations stated policy. which Is that no newcomer shall use welfare. period. and shall not become a public charge. and the reality in the United States. where onefifth of our newcomers use welfare. My colleagues could easily wonder. and are wondering. "How can this happen?" That Is the question of the day.
Identified stereotypes
Generalization that immigrants use welfare.