Congress Tiptoes Back to Immigrant Issues

Congress is stealing back into the immigration debate. After failing to pass broad reforms three months ago, lawmakers are focusing on less ambitious initiatives. Democrat proposals would give legal status to young immigrants and visas to farmhands, while Republicans favor guest worker programs and blocking illegals from federal aid. But these quieter moves will likely still draw loud reactions, says the Los Angeles Times.

Immigrant groups have staged protests and letter-writing campaigns demanding change, while equally ardent watchdog groups oppose any hint of amnesty for illegals. “We may be heading for another immigration battle,” said one senator. The last battle ended in a draw, with the Senate spiking reform legislation supported by President Bush. (More illegal immigration stories.)