A bill to improve border security and immigration

By the REV. JERRY BROOKS

Senate Bill S.1033, a bill to “improve immigration,” would help thousands of immigrants who are here and undocumented. It would enable them to apply for green cards, among other changes. Said to have a good chance of passing, the bill would affect immigrants in a number of ways:

Establishes: (1) an H-5A essential worker visa program for low-skilled workers; (2) a mechanism for subsequent adjustment of status; and (3) an Essential Worker Visa Program Task Force.

Authorizes the Secretary of State to enter into an agreement with foreign governments whose citizens participate in the H-5A program to establish a labor migration facilitation program.

Exempts immediate relatives of U.S. citizens from the annual cap on family-sponsored immigrant visas. Increases numerical limits for specified visas.

Authorizes H-5B nonimmigrant status for undocumented aliens present in the United States on the date of this Act’s introduction who meet specified requirements and pay a fine. Provides a mechanism for subsequent adjustment of status.

Defines “authorized representative” for immigration purposes. Makes alien victims of fraud perpetrated by unauthorized representatives eligible for U (victims of certain crimes) nonimmigrant status.

Authorizes the Secretary to establish the U.S. Citizenship Foundation. Requires the Secretary to establish a competitive grant program to address civic integration.

Amends the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 to extend authorization of Federal reimbursement for hospitals that provide emergency care to undocumented immigrants.

The bill is sponsored by Sen. John McCain (Ariz.), and cosponsored by Sen. Sam Brownback (Kans.), Sen. Lindsey Graham (S.C.), Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (Mass.), Sen. Joseph I. Lieberman (Conn.), and Sen. Ken Salazar (Colo.).