Highly debated immigration bill to return to Senate floor

11:22 a.m. Friday, June 15, 2007

In a short bipartisan statement, the Senate Democratic and Republican leaders announced the immigration bill will return to the senate floor.

Video: Click Here for Video

Under the deal, opponents will be allowed to offer some 20 amendments to change what they don't like about the bill. A breakthrough after intense behind closed doors negotiations lead by senators who vowed not to give up.

"Doing nothing is not an alternative," Democratic Senator Ted Kennedy said. "It's not an alternative. This issue isn't going away."

"If we don't try, this problem that has bedeviled us for years will continue," Republican Senator John Kyl said.

The highly controversial immigration compromise has generated emotional opposition from all sides. Especially the provisions allowing millions of illegal immigrants a chance at citizenship, a temporary guest worker program, and a change in immigration law that puts more emphasis on employment needs than family ties.

Senate Republicans say a renewed presidential push helped seal the deal. Hours before the breakthrough, President Bush tried to persuade skeptical conservatives the bill really would help secure the border.

"I support an amendment that will provide $4.4 billion in immediate additional funding for securing our borders and enforcing our laws at the work site," Bush said.

"It gives people security. I mean it gives people the confidence to know that we're serious about enforcement. People have a hard time believing that Washington means it this time," Republican Senator Mel Martinez said.