By James L. Lambert
May 26, 2006

(AgapePress) - The United States Senate approved an amnesty bill (S.B. 2611) on Thursday that effectively advertises to foreigners that the U.S. government refuses to enforce its own immigration laws.

Despite the denials of senators like Ted Kennedy, John McCain, Harry Reid, Bill Frist, and Hillary Rodham-Clinton, this is an amnesty bill -- and one of vast proportions. It effectively communicates to the large population of illegal immigrants already in this country that they "would be permitted to remain, continue working and eventually apply for citizenship," reports Associated Press. "They would be required to pay at least $3,250 in fines and fees, settle any back taxes, and learn English."

Succumbing to the strong influence of a peculiar consortium of secular media, labor, and big business, the 62 senators who voted in favor of S.B. 2611 have betrayed the confidence of millions of Americans. Yesterday's Senate bill calls for only 1,000 new Border Patrol agents -- with "promises" to increase that total to 14,000 by 2011. Following on the heels of the Senate's disregard for border security last year, this action reveals that chamber's continued purposeful blindness to the severe problems America is facing along the border with Mexico.

What would the future hold under this legislation? Estimates of the number of future incoming illegal aliens are staggering, considering the potential millions and millions who will now try to enter the country to join relatives already here. Registration and processing of illegal immigrants already in this country will likely cost American taxpayers billions of dollars.

And prior amendments voted on by this same legislative body indicate lawmakers' willingness for taxpayers to foot the bill extending Social Security benefits to an immigrant population that has shown blatant disregard for U.S. law. With the tremendous strain already on the Social Security system, this measure is a slap in the face to taxpayers across the country.

This Senate version of immigration reform legislation does not properly address the huge challenges that face the American people on this issue. Let's hope and pray that members of the U.S. House stand their ground as the two sides attempt to hammer a compromise bill.