Representative Gutierrez Unveils Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill
Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez (D-IL) has unveiled comprehensive immigration reform legislation that would, among other provisions:
- strengthen border security;
- create a streamlined employment verification system;
- amend the visa program to promote the reunification of families;
- establish a commission to recommend changes to the current system of H-1B and H-2B visas for skilled workers;
- impose tougher penalties for employers who hire illegal workers; and
- legalize undocumented immigrants who register with the federal government, pay a $500 fine, learn English, pass background checks, and meet other requirements. Individuals who meet these requirements would then be eligible for a six-year visa and, finally, a green card.
In unveiling the bill, titled The Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America's Security and Prosperity Act of 2009 (CIR ASAP), Gutierrez was joined by a coalition of lawmakers, including the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Black Caucus, Asian Pacific American Caucus and Progressive Caucus.
