Compromise on Immigration Deal Reached

Well, this morning, in a bipartisan news conference, a compromise was announced on the immigration issue. It is reportedly already supported by a majority of Republicans and many key democrats. President Bush also is thought to be on board. While this sounds like great news, it is only the Senate version of the Bill. Compromise will still have to be made with the House Bill.

Here's what the compromise entails:

— Illegals in the United States less than two years would be required to leave immediately. If caught once, they would be subject to a misdemeanor, and if caught twice they would be charged with a felony. About 2 million to 3 million people fall into this category.

— Illegals in the United States between two and five years would have go to one of 16 ports of entry in the United States, determined by the U.S. Visit program, and declare themselves. They would be given a temporary visa and allowed back to their U.S. residences immediately. Once in the United States, they could apply for the citizenship path spelled out in the McCain-Kennedy bill. About 3 million to 4 million people fall into this category.

— Illegals who could prove they have been in the United States for more than five years would immediately be given guest worker status and would get on the 11-year path to citizenship. They would not have to declare themselves as guest workers. This path would be open to about 5 million illegals living in the United States.

From my initial analysis, I think this is a great compromise, and one that most people can agree on.

When I heard of this compromise, I couldn't help but think that this is how government should work.

Tags: Immigration Reform, Senate, Bush