The immigration framework released by a high-powered group of senators on Monday shows a careful bargain that tries to address some of the hurdles that have helped sink earlier efforts to pass a legalization bill.
Four Democrats and four Republicans, including most of the top senators who have been prominent on immigration in recent years, will hold a press conference Monday afternoon to kick off the immigration debate, a day ahead of a major speech on the issue by President Obama in Las Vegas.
The senators’ plan would grant immediate legal probationary status to most illegal immigrants, but would delay giving them a full path to citizenship until the country’s borders are deemed more secure, and until the government creates a system that can track visitors to make sure they aren’t overstaying their visas.
And tackling one of the thorniest issues of access to welfare and other public benefits, the senators said those who get legal status won’t be immediately eligible for new assistance.