Political Quotes

“I do not want to speak much longer. I didn't speak much when I was on the floor before about another element of the Latino and Immigrant Fairness Act because I focused on my own personal experiences in south Florida. But the ``registry date'' component of the legislation will have a tremendously positive impact on my State and on our Nation as a whole. Congress every so often in the course of legislation updates what is called the registry date in immigration law. This is the way, for many years, residents of our Nation have had to formalize their status in the United States. It recognizes the fact that after many years in our country doing the hardest work, paying taxes, participating in the community, and starting small businesses, there should be an avenue of appeal to be able to stay in the United States. To apply for relief--and I underscore apply for relief, not be granted relief--to apply for relief under the new registry date, 1986, you must have been here since that time, nearly 15 years. For many Floridians, these are the most long-term employees or our established neighbors. These workers for Florida's companies have the most experience and are among the most dedicated. It is fundamentally unfair to these workers, the businesses, and our communities to uproot these families after 15 years or more. Critics have said this condones illegal immigration.…”