Immigration Deal Reached in Senate

Despite the controversy, the just-introduced compromise immigration bill might serve the long-term interests of the U.S. to preserve the rule of law as well as individual human rights. Contrary to criticism which contends that it “would do lasting damage to the country” (“Immigration Deal Reached In Senate,” May 18), the legislation will not only encourage economic growth, but also give illegal immigrants in the country the opportunity to gain legal citizenship status using fair criteria. This includes paying a maximum fee of $5,000 per family, passing a criminal background check, submitting to a mandated residence permit in the country of one’s nationality, and learning English.

The provisions of the bill will also ensure that U.S. corporations are held accountable that the immigrant job applicant is properly documented. The compromise immigration measure promotes justice in treating this issue while it encourages personal integrity by implementing a prudent pathway to legal citizenship. This approach will guarantee the rights of all workers, including illegal immigrants. Formerly disenfranchised workers will now have the chance to make use of the legitimate routes now being designated by the U.S. legal system. At the same time, the American economy will benefit from this bill since it will incorporate a higher percentage of educated, highly skilled, English speaking, and law-abiding individuals into the American work force, fully capable of contributing to their new society. The bill also offers Americans greater security through enhanced border protection, in addition to strengthened fairness standards for immigrants to become citizens.