Political Quotes

Xavier Becerra: “Mr. Chairman, this bill goes the final step and says, ``If we catch you, you can never return.'' It takes into account…”

On the recordMarch 19, 1996
Mr. Chairman, this bill goes the final step and says, ``If we catch you, you can never return.'' It takes into account not one bit what the circumstances may have been for that individual who was in the country. If that individual happened to be here and had a great deal of family here and made the mistake of trying to come in here without documents, let us make the person pay a price. But to forever banish that individual from seeing a family member in this country I think is extremely harsh. Ten years is very severe punishment to serve and that is already in the bill.
Said by
Xavier Becerra
Democratic · California

Editor's note · Context

Opposing an amendment related to immigration penalties during a House committee debate.

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