Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) were joined by New America Media’s Sandy Close and pollster Sergio Bendixen at a news conference to announce the release of NAM’s Poll of Undocumented Immigrants From Latin America on June 21.

The research finds that an overwhelming majority undocumented immigrants would comply with the proposed legislation to legalize their status, including paying tough fines and fees and undergoing criminal background checks. Eighty-three percent say they would apply for the new Z visa. And, if they are guaranteed reentry, they will travel back to their home countries, apply for a visa, and put themselves on the right track to legalization.

“This poll today demonstrates that this bipartisan reform bill would work,” said Sen. Kennedy. “It would work because the 12 million undocumented immigrants who are here today will pay the high price to become an American citizen. They want to come out of the shadows and help strengthen this country. And, they have something to contribute. They are men and women of dignity. They work hard every day. They care for their families. They revitalize decaying neighborhoods. They sit in our pews on Sundays. This country’s toughest problems never have an easy answer. But, the American people expect us to find one. The Senate bill provides that solution. It’s tough, it’s fair and it’s practical.”

According to Sen. Feinstein, “Our immigration system, as it exists today, is broken. And one area where the broken system has been most evident is the agriculture industry.” She stressed the importance of including the AgJOBS provisions in the final bill and bringing relief to the agriculture industry.

Washington, D.C., USA.

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