Senate Revives Amnesty Guest Worker Bill as S. 1639

The Senate, having revived its amnesty/guest worker bill, is preparing to vote on it again, as soon as next week. The bill, formerly S.1348, has been designated S. 1639. It basically offers legalization (amnesty) to 12 million or more illegal aliens; opens the door to 200,000 guest workers per year; and promises better enforcement of immigration laws.

After the bill failed a cloture vote on June 7th, President Bush urged Senate Republican leaders to revive it and pass it. White House spokesman Tony Snow said that he believed the legislation would pass after "a pretty vigorous fight" over amendments. Nevertheless, several key Republicans who previously supported the bill have announced they will oppose it. Two were Georgia Senators Johnny Isakson and Saxby Chambliss. Both came under heavy pressure from constituents to withdraw their support.

Another key Republican to turn against it was Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas. She stated, "Until major changes are made that reject amnesty and a more open, fair process emerges for debating one of the most crucial issues facing our nation, I cannot support this immigration bill." Source: Houston Chronicle (6/21/07)

Commentary: There is a decent chance of stopping this bill in the Senate, maybe for the rest of this year. Senators are paying attention to the flood of calls, e-mails, faxes, and letters against it. But we can't let up. Even if you have contacted them before, contact them again. Remember the new name of the bill, S. 1639, and tell your senators to vote against it.

Take Action: Contact your Senators today via our Legislative Action Center.