Intro
The debate over the bipartisan immigration bill in the Senate could last for weeks. Liberals say the bill limits opportunities for unskilled workers, while conservatives say the bill gives “amnesty” to those who have broken the law.

Illegal immigrants
- Could seek a "Z visa," which would give immediate work authorization if they arrived in the United States before January 1, 2007
- Head of household would have to return to their home country within eight years; would be guaranteed the right to return to the U.S.
- Applicants would have to pay a $5,000 staggered penalty

Guest workers
"Y visas" would be issued to 400,000 guest workers per year.
- Guest workers would enter the U.S. on two-year visas, return home for a year, then re-enter for additional two years. May enter three times (total six years) if not bringing family, but only one time if bringing family.
- Guest workers earn points toward merit-based green card.
- May bring families on 30-day visitor visas each year.

Enforcement
- Border fencing would be strengthened.
- The number of Border Patrol agents would be increased.
- Employers who hire undocumented workers would face fines.
- The guest worker program cannot begin until enforcement provisions are in place, which Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff estimates will take 18 months.

Sursa: CNN