Lincoln Diaz-Balart: “with regard to the legislation on immigration that is included in this appropriations bill, I think it is important to…”

“with regard to the legislation on immigration that is included in this appropriations bill, I think it is important to point out that it is historic. It is in the great generous and compassionate tradition of the United States. The process behind the Central American relief legislation began in July of this year, in June and July of this year, after a commitment by President Clinton to the Central American Presidents during a summit in Costa Rica, and also a commitment by the Speaker of the House, Speaker Gingrich, after a visit to south Florida, precisely commenting on this issue. The legislation was drafted after serious consultation with the National Security Council and the Department of Justice. It was drafted to prevent the deportation of Nicaraguans and also of Guatemalans and Salvadorans, known as the ABC class, that were denied suspension of deportation by the retroactivity of the Immigration Reform Act that was passed last year. I want to point out, I would like to point out, Mr. Speaker, that passage of this language, which is included in the District of Columbia appropriations bill, will not in any way hinder efforts to seek similar relief for Haitian refugees in other legislative measures.”