Legalization process must be rigorous
Without a doubt, the United States cannot afford to postpone immigration reform. However, Pramila Jayapal’s assertion that the first step in reform is legalizing all the undocumented immigrants, ahead of reforming the current system for legal immigration, is disingenuous. [“We can’t afford to wait on immigration reform,” Opinion, April 15.]
Serious reform must address both, comprehensively. I have the impression that Jayapal’s vision of reform for the undocumented immigrants would be immediate and unconditional amnesty. This is repugnant.
Any process of legalization must be rigorous — not crippling — and include fines and a requirement to acquire basic proficiency in English.
With respect to legal immigrants, as a nation we are seriously at risk without an immigration system that makes us attractive to the talented, educated and ambitious from all corners of the globe.
— James B. Paden, Blaine