Alan Simpson: “this will cost $16 billion. Our Nation's immigration law is very clear on one point. No one may immigrate to the United…”

“this will cost $16 billion. Our Nation's immigration law is very clear on one point. No one may immigrate to the United States of America if he or she is likely at any time to become a public charge. And the American public expects the newcomers will work and receive any needed support from the relatives who brought them here. Period. That is the law. There is considerable evidence that this promise of self-sufficiency is not being honored. That is why in the other bill we enforce the affidavit of sponsorship. The welfare reform bill contains provisions which ensure that immigrants are self-sufficient. The bill shifts the welfare costs from the American taxpayers onto those who sponsor their immigrant relatives to the country. The immigration bill is in conference. It is not in peril. We have resolved 150 items of the Senate issues, 120 House issues. We have three significant issues yet to be resolved. But these provisions on immigrant welfare are important. We cannot afford to have these reforms delayed, and the Graham amendment would do just that. The simple premise: Sponsor brings the immigrant, sponsor promises to pay, sponsor pays before the taxpayer pays.”