Speech #1050119729

I rise in support. of tie PomnboKennedy amendment to H.R. 2578. This amendment is narrowly drawn. It would raise the visa waiver program refusai rate from 2 to 3 percent. This would allow citizens of Greece and Portugal to travel to the United States for 110 days without a visa. There has been a lot of Incorrect information that has been circulated about this amendment. Tiis anmendment Is not about Immigration but rather about tourism and commerce. It would allow people from Greece and Portugal to travel to the United States. whether for business or plestire. without getting a visa. just as those countries allow people from our country to come to their countries. Tourism from these countries would increase dramatically and help and benefit the American economy. In fact. the first year that Argentina was inI tie program. tourism from that country to the United States grew by 11.5 percent. I am fortunate to represent Astoria. Queens. which Is one of the largest llellenic American communities in the United States. I know i.ha. they would like for their families to be able to come and visit them here inI the United States without having to get a visa. just as they are able to travel to Greece without a visa. It is very appropriate that this amendment is before us today. because this is the 177th anniversary of Greek Independence. Groece is one of our oldest and strongest allies.