Representative George Gekas (R-PA), Chair of the House Immigration, Border Security and Claims Subcommittee, has just introduced H.R. 5013, the Securing America's Future through Enforcement Act - SAFER, with 11 cosponsors. Representative Gekas' statement announcing this measure explicitly links immigration with terrorism. Many of the changes called for in this legislation top the wish list of restrictionists nationwide. Among other provisions, the bill would:

"Modestly" reduce legal immigration levels by about 20%.

Eliminate "excessive" court review of deportation orders and reduce the ability of immigration lawyers to engage in "dilatory and abusive tactics" in deportation proceedings.

Further expand the deportation provisions in current law.

"Foil" the ability of illegal aliens to get jobs by requiring that employers check the validity of new employees' social security numbers.

Give the President the option to fully utilize the military along our borders.

Require all long-term alien visitors and residents to be fingerprinted and to periodically register their addresses with the USCIS.

Require schools to report to the USCIS on the subject matter of each course taken by foreign students.

Make it a federal crime to overstay a visa by more than six months.

We felt it important to alert you to the latest efforts of the House Immigration Subcommittee Chair. This information comes from Representative Gekas' summary of the bill. AILA will analyze the bill as soon as the text is available, and will keep you posted.

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