Immigration Bill Politics
The column by Stephen Moore (Commentary, Sept. 28) and the editorial point up the economic possibilities, both positive and negative, of the the family unity bill. But we also need to address a number of provisions that can facilitate the reunification of immigrant families in an orderly and controlled manner. As an organization that has seen firsthand the frustration of U.S. families who for years have been separated, we strongly encouraged support of the family provisions of the bill.
We note particularly that this act creates a special category 115,000 visas aimed at the reunion of permanent residents with their spouses and minor children. At present, newly legalized persons might have to wait up to 20 or 30 years to live with their spouses and children.
A further provision would provide 50,000 visas to ease some of the most unreasonable backlogs. Moreover, the bill would protect the spouses and children of legalized residents from deportation and would grant them work authorization.
Family immigration has been and must remain the cornerstone of the American immigration system.
BRUCE M. RAMER, Chairman
Pacific Rim Institute
American Jewish Committee
Los Angeles
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