We’ve heard this song before

We’ve heard this song before

The latest immigration bill that will soon be voted on and probably passed, reminds me of a popular 1942 song, “I’ve heard that song before.” In 1986 approximately three million illegals were granted legal status based on the government’s promise that the border would be secured, thus greatly reducing the number of illegal immigrants.

How effective has border security been since 1986? From three million illegals in 1986 who were granted legal status, it is now estimated that there are 11 or more million who have entered the country illegally or overstayed their visas. So why should the American people believe that things will be different this time? They shouldn’t.

In the new immigration bill, illegals will be required to pay a fine, undergo a background check, pay taxes, learn English and civics, demonstrate a history of work in the United States, and current employment, among other requirements. Those meeting these requirements would eventually earn a green card. The bill would also prevent illegals from accessing public funds, however, recent reports indicate that more than $100 million in Medicare aid went to illegal immigrants from 2009 to 2011.

The cost to government to monitor compliance with the requirements in this new immigration bill would be staggering. But don’t worry about that, because knowing how government operates, compliance with the requirements in the bill will be ignored and most of the illegals will eventually receive legal status without complying with the requirements of the bill.

So when you hear a bunch of senators who support the bill say that things will be different this time if the illegals are granted legal status, just remember the 1942 tune, “I’ve heard that song before.”

Victor A. Darst

West Dundee