Immigration Reform: Protest and Support

While 500,000 people marched the streets of Los Angeles in protest to H.R. 4437, the House version of the immigration reform bill backed by the White House, Liberal Politics Guide Deborah White interviewed U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-California, 40th), a cosponsor of the controversial bill.

If enacted, the immigration reform act would make it a federal crime for anyone, including family and members of the clergy, to offer services or assistance to illegal aliens.

During the interview, Rep. Royce explained his reasons for supporting the bill, including his amendment providing for the construction of a 700-mile, double-wall to be built along the US-Mexico border.

On Saturday, President Bush spoke in support of enactment of immigration reform. "To keep the promise of America, we must enforce the laws of America," he said. "We must also ensure that immigrants assimilate into our society and learn our customs and values -- including the English language."

H.R. 4437 was passed in the House by a vote of 239 - 182. The related Senate bill, S. 2454, has been scheduled for debate.

Also See:
Immigration in America: Protest & Support Bush Backs Immigration Reform Act
Immigration Costs California $10.5 Billion Annually