Speech #1050119713

I would argue that It is arbitrary Ila ite nanner that.. sure. we are giving the people general guidelines of what they have to go by. but they make an arbitrary decision as to whether or not to refuse that at that time. The chairman. In previous arguments. brought. up that this may inI some way Increase crime and terrorism and illegal Immigration by allowing Portuguese citizens to visit this country and by allowing Greek citizens to visit this country. Unfortunately. by some of the Dear Colleagues that have been sent out. we would read those and believe that somehow Portugal Is an exporter of terrorism around thu world. which I find lersonally very offensive and my family members find personally very offensive. it is not true. Nor is It true that Portugal Is known as a country that exports babies around the world in some kind of chld smuggling ring. for Gods sake. But. according to some of the Dear Colleagues that have been paused around here. unfortunately. we would believe that that is the case. and it is absolutely untrue and unfounded. I think it Is very unforl.unate that anybody would have sent that out. But even if It was the case. even If it was tie case. according to tile law. the Attorney General. in consultation with the Secretary of State. may for any reason. including national sacurity. refrain from waiving the visa requirement In respect to nationals of any country who may otherwise qualify for the designation at that time. So If the Attorney General determines that. for some reason. Portugal or Greece should not qualify. that they increase terrorism and child smuggling around the world. they can withdraw the ability of Portugal to be in the program. Furthermore. I do not understand. quite. the logic. There was debate previously about illegal immigration and how somehow Portugal. that If they are included in this. that that will increase illegal immigration. Well. I hate to surprise my colleagues. but we are talking about a legal program for pnople to legally come to the United States for tourism or business. to legally nome In. We are not talking about illegal Immigration. sea. because ieople that are going to break the law arc going to break the law and come in illegally. That is what happens. Tlhal.