Nancy Pelosi: “I rise in support of the Berman, Brownback and Chrysler amendment, which strikes the provisions in this legislation…”

“I rise in support of the Berman, Brownback and Chrysler amendment, which strikes the provisions in this legislation which reduce and restrict legal immigration. I agree with my colleagues that we must curb illegal immigration responsibly and effectively. However, as the Berman, Brownback and Chrysler amendment recognizes, the issue of legal immigration is clearly distinct and separate. Legal immigration is currently tightly controlled and regulated. Yet this legislation proposes the largest cut in immigration in nearly 70 years. Lawful and orderly family reunification contributes to strengthening American families. Yet almost 3/4 of the bill's reductions in the number of legal immigrants admitted come in family-related categories. Provisions in this legislation make it impossible for legal immigrants to be united with some family members. Under this legislation, virtually no Americans would be able to sponsor their parents, adult children or siblings for immigration. Not all Americans subscribe to the restrictive definition of family imposed in the bill-- nor should they. America has long been a haven for refugees seeking freedom from political, religious and gender persecution. Yet this bill would cut in half our current ability to offer asylum to people in dire need. Immigrants today who come to our country through legal means are not at all different from immigrants of generations past--our parents or grandparents.”