Eight U.S. Senators, four Republicans and four Democrats unveiled their plans on Monday for what they call “successful permanent” immigration reform. The plan creates a path for undocumented immigrants to live legally in the U.S. and a plan for long term permanent residency.
Under the plan, undocumented immigrants must start off by registering with the federal government. After completing background checks and paying back taxes, they will receive probationary legal status, allowing them to legally live and work in the country. Marco Rubio, a U.S. Senator from Florida, said this reform is a step in the right direction.
“The issue of immigration is not a simple one, but I think we have the opportunity to do it right, and if we do, I think we’ll do a tremendous service to our country,” Rubio contended.
Immigrants seeking a green card for long term residency must prove a U.S. work history, provide current employment, and learn English. The bipartisan group says the legislation aims to secure, modernize, and streamline the current legal immigration process.