Political Quotes

“I rise in objection to the motion to instruct conferees on H.R. 2267. In this motion is an effort to close the process of Americanization to thousands of qualified human beings who are a valuable part of America's future. Mr. Speaker, 245(i) permits certain family and employment-based immigrants to adjust their status to that of permanent residence while remaining in the United States. The enactment of Section 245(i) has generated between $100 and $200 million annually in additional revenues for the U.S. Government and reduces the State Department's visa processing caseload by an average of 30 percent. In 1996 the immigration law increased the fine from $650 to $1,000 and required that at least 80 percent of the funds generated be deposited in a INS account, to be used as the INS wishes. Failure to extend this provision of the law would result in a shortage in resources for both the INS and the State Department and create a backlog in application processing. Section 245(i) is not an amnesty, it does not allow illegal immigrants to buy their U.S. status. It can only be used by prospective lawful permanent residents and under close and careful scrutiny of Federal authorities.”