Statement by Most Reverend Gerald Barnes, Bishop of San Bernardino

Chairman, USCCB Committee on Migration

May 25, 2005

The passage of S. 2611, the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2006, in the U.S. Senate is a historic moment for our nation. While the U.S. bishops’ Conference does not agree with each and every provision in the Senate-passed bill, we applaud its comprehensive approach and believe it contains many of the elements necessary to help solve the problems associated with our country’s current immigration system.

As the Congressional process continues, we urge the Senate and House of Representatives to work together to either eliminate or ameliorate the harsh enforcement provisions found in both the House- and Senate-passed versions of the legislation. In addition, we encourage House Members and Senators to simplify and streamline the path to citizenship for the undocumented in this country that is found in the Senate bill. We also urge Congress to maintain a viable and just temporary worker program, which includes an option to petition for permanent residency, as well as to make changes to our family-based immigration system to reduce the waiting time for families to be reunited.

Ultimately, the U.S. bishops’ continued support for immigration reform legislation requires a workable and viable path to citizenship for the undocumented, significant backlog reductions for family-based visas, and a viable temporary workers program that protects both U.S. and foreignborn workers.