Immigration Update

Update from Lanier Swann, Policy Advisor from the Office of the Republican Leader, Senator Mitch McConnell

Senate Immigration Update:

On Tuesday the Senate continued consideration of the Immigration Reform Bill. Following up on emails from previous days, the Leaders have extended the debate on the measure, so debate will continue this week and the week following Memorial Day Recess.

This evening the Senate voted 31-64 to defeat the Dorgan Amendment (#1153 – to strike the Y nonimmigrant guestworker program). Roll Call vote: http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=110&session=1&vote=00174

We will reconvene tomorrow morning at 9:30 am and get on the bill at 10:30 am. Expected amendments tomorrow are:

• Graham amendment on creating mandatory minimum sentences for illegal re-entry (those who re-enter after being deported once)
• Grassley amendment on visa revocations (denying judicial review if your visa is revoked after you’ve entered the country – making it the same as if your visa is denied by a consular officer overseas).
• Bingaman amendment cutting the temporary guest worker program from 400,000 to 200,000
• Other amendments could be offered and voted on as well.