House Democrats add gay rights to immigration reform
House Democrats add gay rights to immigration reform
In an effort to gain more support for immigration reform, House Democrats are pushing for a provision that would let gay and lesbian Americans bring their foreign partners to the country.
At present, legal permanent residents of the U.S. can bring a foreign spouse or immediate family members to the country by securing a green card or immigrant visa. This does not apply to same-sex bi-national couples, because their relationships are not considered marriages under federal law.
Adding the Uniting American Families Act to immigration reform is being called risky by both Democrats and Republicans.
“It adds another dimension to the issue that will be the subject of significant debate,” said Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.). “For sure, it will enhance the debate.”
National Republican Campaign Committee spokesperson Joanna Burgos said that trying to appeal to Hispanic voters and gay and lesbian voters with one piece of legislation could be problematic.
“I think it puts Democrats in Hispanic districts in an awkward position because they are very socially conservative,” she said.
The comprehensive immigration bill was introduced buy Luis Gutierrez (D-IL) in December 2009, and last week, he said that he is just 17 votes short of the majority he needs to pass the bill in the House.
But Jerrod Nadler (D-NY) said, “No immigration reform measure will truly be deserving of the term ‘comprehensive’ unless it provides equality for gays and lesbians as well.”
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