If I'm not mistaken this is the first piecemeal immigration bill to get a hearing in the Senate Judiciary,hopefully Dream act will come soon after.
Quote:
Immigration Equality just broke the news announcing Senator Patrick Leahy will convene a Congressional hearing on the Uniting American Families Act (UAFA). The hearing, set for June 3, 2009, is a huge milestone for those who want to eliminate discrimination by giving same-sex partners of American citizens and lawful permanent residents the same rights as heterosexual couples to obtain residency. From Immigration Equality:
The June 3rd hearing will not only be a milestone on our path to victory in Washington, but it will also be a watershed moment for ensuring that our families are part of the national conversation on immigration reform. This will be a powerful moment – and a significant step forward – in our work to educate lawmakers about our relationships and engage Congressional leaders on the issue. Members of Congress are traditionally reluctant to pass legislation that has not been discussed and weighed in at Congressional hearings, so a hearing is critical to UAFA’s future success, and its inclusion in comprehensive immigration reform. The hearing is, quite simply, one of the most significant moments ever in our work to secure full equality for lesbian and gay binational couples.
The Uniting American Families Act was first introduced in 2000, and recently reintroduced on February 12, 2009 by Sen. Leahy and Rep. Nadler.
