This particular bill was introduced by Representative James Sensenbrenner Jr. [R-Wis.] and passed by the full House on December 6, 2005. This is a very strict enforcement bill. Among other provisions, criminal penalties are increased for alien smuggling and unlawful entry offenses. A single drunk driving offense could be a basis for deportation under this bill. State Courts could be prevented from reversing convictions after a Federal Court has ordered removal. Additional requirements are imposed on employers to verify new hires to assure citizenship or Immigration status. Judicial review in many cases would be severely restricted. Notably absent from this bill is any provision to expand legal immigration. Fortunately, the Congress recessed before the matter could be considered in the Senate. It is expected that the Senate will not pass this particular bill without significant amendments, and possibly including legal immigration provisions, including an oft – discussed so called “guest worker” program.
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