New Immigration Bill Is Introduced in House by Randal C. Archibold

Emma Noyes

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Summary:

A representative named Luis V. Gutierrez recently introduced a bill on immigration, which outlines a new policy. It appears to be highly controversial, and no definite statements have been made on whether it will pass or not. The bill goes like this: illegal immigrants will go through a series of steps - such as paying a $500 fine, learning English, and demonstrating that they have been working - to gain citizenship, and won't have to go back to their homeland at all. Also, there is no temporary worker program mentioned in the bill. Lots of people are supportive of this bill, like Janet Napolitano, the homeland security secretary. However, many are not, saying that it is too liberal or gives the illegal immigrants an easy ride into citizenship.

Relation to class:

This relates to class because we have been studying immigration. Also, we have been discussing the problems it brings to our nation and the ways our government has been trying to fix that. This article discusses one way of trying to fix the problem, just like the options we studied recently in class.

Discussion Questions:

1. What is Archibold referring to when it says "touchback"? Why might this be a requirement in other bills?

2. Do you like the requirements for citizenship listed in this bill? Do you think they are fair? Explain.

3. Why might the government feel it is so important that there is a temporary worker program in the bill? 

Question Answers:

1. Touchback is the process of returning to your homeland first before becoming a citizen. I think this might be important so that the United States knows that they are not lying about where they come from and their relationship with that country.

2. I think they are good requirements. Learning English is something that has been around since when Ellis Island was open, and immigrants should prove that they are capable of being able to work and contribute to the country. Also, the background check is very important so that we aren't letting in terrorists or any other sort of criminals for that matter.

3. This bill would be important so that people who just want to come here to make money for their family back home can do so without unnecessarily becoming a citizen. After all, it would be pointless if they were just looking for a way to support their family who isn't in the USA.