The US Senate took up a compromise immigration measure in April 2006, put forward by Republican senators Chuck Hagel and Mel Martinez, that would create different outcomes for undocumented immigrants depending on how long they had lived in the country.
Those present in the United States for five or more years could pursue legal status by satisfying eight conditions, including passing background checks, demonstrating at least three years of employment, paying all owed taxes, registering for selective service, proving basic English and civics knowledge, paying a $2,000 fine plus application fees, and continuing to work for six additional years after the law took effect.
Undocumented residents who had been in the country between two and five years would be eligible for a temporary work visa, but would first need to leave the US, submit to fingerprinting at a land border crossing, and meet standard visa requirements. That group would receive priority consideration for permanent residency over future temporary workers.
Those present for fewer than two years would gain no benefits under the bill and would be required to depart, though they could apply for a temporary work visa from their home countries.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in April 2006, in its own words.