Linder introduces "U.S. General Population Act"

Washington, D.C. (June 6, 2006) - Today, Congressman John Linder (R-GA) introduced legislation entitled, "U.S. General Population Act" to address the debate over immigration which has overwhelmed Congress. 

   "The question of immigration will, in my opinion, become the defining issue of the next generation. Unfortunately, the debate over securing our borders and protecting the interests of our citizens is too often demonized by the opposition and turned into an ugly accusation of racism. For this reason, I have introduced the U.S. General Population Act, a bill designed to align the immigration laws of the United States with those of Mexico. This bill simply reflects the same immigration restrictions implemented by Mexico with the same consequences for those in violation." 

   "The President said in his address that our neighbors to the south are our friends. I believe that to be true. But they must treat America with the same respect they demand for themselves. It is my hope that this legislation will spur the debate in this direction and will help put it in the proper perspective." 

   The U.S. General Population Act accomplishes the following: 

   · Requires the Department of Homeland Security to regulate our laws toward the goal of full assimilation for legal immigrants into a U.S. culture.

   · Strengthens the government's ability to regulate the entry into and exit from the United States, whether through land, water, or air transportation. 

   · Affords legal immigrants the ability to become permanent residents after five years in the United States. 

   · Allows for the full registration of all foreign nationals in the United States. 

   · Reinforces a prohibition on illegal entry into the United States.

   · Increases penalties for violations of immigration law, including stiffer fines and time in prison for repeat offenders or human traffickers.

   "The outcome of this debate has long standing consequences and should not be tainted with false accusations of racism and hatred. It needs to be honest and civil, and I hope that this legislation will do its part to keep that in perspective."