View Full Version : House Dems Offer Legal Status to Undocumented in Immigration Bill
Team Sergeant
12-15-2009, 17:06
I'm just about to march on Washington, but this time no signs.
I've just about had it with "giving" America away.
Let's say we fight for it again.
20-30 million illegal criminals (or "illegal democrats") are about to receive "EVERYTHING" for free and you're footing the bill.
TS
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/12/15/house-dems-offer-legal-status-undocumented-immigration/?test=latestnews
House Dems Offer Legal Status to "Undocumented" (crimminals) in Immigration Bill
Lawmakers pushing for immigration reform say job losses and a sluggish economy should not deter legislation legalizing illegal immigrants.
Hispanic, black, Asian and other House lawmakers backing immigration overhaul called Tuesday for legalizing illegal immigrants in the U.S., despite a weakened economy and joblessness.
The coalition of lawmakers said Tuesday immigration reform can protect American workers as well as bring into the mainstream economy productive immigrant workers who have lived in the shadows because of their illegal status.
"For those who say that given the state of our economy, given the unemployment rate, this is not the time, I would say to you there is no wrong or right time. There is a moral obligation," said Rep. Lydia Velazquez, D-N.Y., chairwoman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill., who has become a leader of a multiethnic coalition of immigration reform backers, said immigration reform opponents "will use it as a wedge issue and will blame everything from unemployment to rising health care costs on immigrants."
"The immigrant blame game is constant," Gutierrez told a packed Capitol Hill news conference.
Immigration reform also means tougher penalties for employers who hire illegal workers, rules requiring foreign investors given U.S. visas to create jobs in this country, restrictions on hiring of foreign workers, he said.
Although there has been a report of a better-than-expected increase in production in the U.S. economy, experts say it remains weak and recovery continues to be slow.
That has led some to suggest that early next year -- as some are expecting -- is not the time to bring up immigration reform and certainly not to legalize illegal immigrants.
"Illegal immigrants currently occupy 8 million jobs. Those stolen jobs rightfully belong to citizens and legal immigrants. We could cut the unemployment rate in half simply by enforcing immigration laws!" said Texas Rep. Lamar Smith, the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee.
An immigration reform bill proposed by Gutierrez seeks to legalize undocumented immigrants by requiring them to register with the federal government, pay a $500 fine for each adult, learn English, pass background checks and meet other requirements. They then are eligible for a six-year visa and when that is done a green card.
It contains numerous other proposals.
The bill was unveiled Tuesday, but lawmakers acknowledged the Senate will vote first. There is some skepticism whether Democrats will be willing to take up immigration reform early next year so soon after a tough health care debate and with 2010 elections gearing up.
"What we are doing is getting ready so when they are done with their work, we can quickly act," Gutierrez said.
The Reaper
12-15-2009, 18:01
Just like the elected scumbags to try and slip this by under the radar.
Every sponsor of this bill needs to be turned out next Nov.
TR
I'm just about to march on Washington, but this time no signs.
I've just about had it with "giving" America away.
Let's say we fight for it again.
20-30 million illegal criminals (or "illegal democrats") are about to receive "EVERYTHING" for free and you're footing the bill.
TS
Your far from alone in those thoughts....
http://action.seiu.org/page/s/onourway
Dear Members of Congress:
On November 13th, the Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano reaffirmed President Obama's commitment to achieving comprehensive immigration reform.
Sec. Napolitano said:
"The President is committed to this issue because the need for immigration reform is so clear. This administration does not shy away from taking on the big challenges of the 21st century, challenges that have been ignored too long and hurt our families and businesses. When Congress is ready to act, we'll be ready to support them."
It's time to get this done. We're calling on Washington to provide the leadership needed to find an immediate solution to this challenge.
Please represent your constituents and work with President Obama to pass comprehensive immigration reform.
[/URL]http://www.seiu.org/2009/12/seiu-statement-on-introduction-of-the-comprehensive-immigration-reform---american-security-and-prosp.php (http://www.seiu.org/2009/12/seiu-statement-on-introduction-of-the-comprehensive-immigration-reform---american-security-and-prosp.php)
SEIU Statement on Introduction of the Comprehensive Immigration Reform - American Security and Prosperity Act (CIR-A.S.A.P)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Published December 15, 2009 10:59 AM
Ali Jost, ali.jost@seiu.org, (202) 730-7159
"Today We Are One Step Closer to Passing the Smart Immigration Reform that American Workers Need"
WASHINGTON DC--Today, Congressman Luis Gutierrez (D-IL) joined Representatives of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, the Congressional Asian and Pacific Americans Caucus, the Congressional Black Caucus, and the Congressional Progressive Caucus to introduce the "Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America's Security Act and Prosperity" (CIR A.S.A.P.) in the U.S. House of Representatives. In response to the bill's introduction, Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Executive Vice President Eliseo Medina issued the following statement:
"Thanks to the direction of Rep. Gutierrez and a diverse group of Congressional leaders, today we are one step closer to passing the smart immigration reform that American workers need. After years of delay, broken promises and political logjams, the urgency is greater than ever to get immigration reform done right; to get it done quickly; and to make sure it works for America.
"Every day Congress delays, today's dysfunctional system further drives down wages, costs taxpayers, devastates communities, and further undermines the rule of law. Until Congress passes comprehensive reforms, workers will continue to be pitted against each other--denied the opportunity to unite their strength and demand the labor and civil rights protections we need to lift our economy and raise living standards for everyone. This is unacceptable.
"The American public knows that short-sighted enforcement tactics won't begin to solve the problem at hand. The only way to ensure that every job in this country is filled by a legal permanent resident is to get undocumented immigrants out of the underground economy, into the system and under the rule of law. Done right, comprehensive immigration reform will raise living standards for all workers, strengthens our economy, and restores the rule of law for the long term. Now is the time to get it done right.
"Though I have not yet had time to study all of the details, it appears that Representatives Luis Gutierrez (D-IL) has crafted a sensible and realistic solution to our long-festering immigration problems, one that promises to restore order, end worker exploitation, and create a fair, workable immigration system. Rep. Gutierrez is committed to solving this problem, and has devoted countless hours to the issue, listening to immigrants, business, labor, even those who oppose immigration reform, and it shows in this bill. It would be a great day for America's workers if many of the ideas in this bill were to become law.
"SEIU congratulates Representative Luis Gutierrez (D-IL) for stepping up to the plate to launch the first comprehensive immigration legislation of the year. As Congress starts a new debate - for the good of our economy and our nation - let's hope we can finally hit a home run."
###
With 2.2 million members in Canada, the United States and Puerto Rico, SEIU is the fastest-growing union in the Americas and the largest union of immigrants. Focused on uniting workers in healthcare, public services and property services, SEIU members are winning better wages, healthcare and more secure jobs for our communities, while uniting their strength with their counterparts around the world to help ensure that workers--not just corporations and CEOs--benefit from today's global economy.
Defender968
12-15-2009, 18:45
What would be the illegal’s motivation to become a citizen at this point? I mean seriously, they can already vote, ACORN has seen to that, they have free health care via our ER's, and as they're illegal there is no credit score to bring down for the unpaid bills, they have jobs and don't currently pay taxes, they operate their vehicles (often with no insurance) and as many don't have US DLs they don't get penalized for not having insurance, their kids get free education paid for by the working US citizens? If they become citizens they'll have to pay taxes, get a license, pay for health care, have insurance etc etc etc, so someone please remind me again why they would want to become documented immigrants or citizens?
But sure give em all citizenship, why not, clearly they respect our laws, speak the language, fit into our culture and don't demand we honor theirs, and aren't a drain on society at all.......oh wait a second......never mind....not sure what I was thinking there.
Ret10Echo
12-15-2009, 18:56
What would be the illegal’s motivation to become a citizen at this point? I mean seriously, they can already vote, ACORN has seen to that, they have free health care via our ER's, and as they're illegal there is no credit score to bring down for the unpaid bills, they have jobs and don't currently pay taxes, they operate their vehicles (often with no insurance) and as many don't have US DLs they don't get penalized for not having insurance, their kids get free education paid for by the working US citizens? If they become citizens they'll have to pay taxes, get a license, pay for health care, have insurance etc etc etc, so someone please remind me again why they would want to become documented immigrants or citizens?
But sure give em all citizenship, why not, clearly they respect our laws, speak the language, fit into our culture and don't demand we honor theirs, and aren't a drain on society at all.......oh wait a second......never mind....not sure what I was thinking there.
No, no, no....it's gotta be PINK
Defender968
12-15-2009, 19:07
No, no, no....it's gotta be PINK
My apologies I did intend for sarcasm but now I realize I put it in the wrong color, been up too long, time for a little shut eye.
Ret10Echo
12-15-2009, 19:17
Just like the elected scumbags to try and slip this by under the radar.
Every sponsor of this bill needs to be turned out next Nov.
TR
When will they learn, Tancredo introduced it in 2007....well he is currently employed elsewhere ;)
H.R.4192
Title: To reform immigration to serve the national interest.
Sponsor: Rep Tancredo, Thomas G. [CO-6] (introduced 11/15/2007) Cosponsors (None)
Latest Major Action: 2/25/2008 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.
Link on Federal Register site (By way of L.O.C. Thomas)
http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=110_cong_bills&docid=f:h4192ih.txt.pdf
Current push by the assorted caucuses. I have not seen the Bill text on Thomas as of yet.
Comprehensive Immigration Reform to be Introduced December 15
December 11, 2009
Rebecca Dreilinger (202) 225-8203
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Washington D.C.) On Tuesday, December 15, Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez (D-IL) will introduce new legislation, the Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America's Security and Prosperity Act of 2009 (CIR ASAP), to the U.S. House of Representatives. Gutierrez will be joined by members of many different faiths and backgrounds, including the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Black Caucus, Asian Pacific American Caucus and Progressive Caucus.
Who:
Rep. Luis V. Gutierrez (IL-4), Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Immigration Task Force
Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-12), Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus
Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (NY-11), Whip of the Congressional Black Caucus
Rep. Mike Honda (CA-15), Chair of Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus
Rep. Silvestre Reyes (TX-16), Chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence
Rep. Lynn Woolsey (CA-6), Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus
Rep. Joe Baca (CA-43)
Rep. Xavier Becerra (CA-31)
Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30)
Rep. Judy Chu (CA-32)
Rep. Joseph Crowley (NY-7)
Rep. Sam Farr (CA-17)
Rep. Charlie Gonzalez (TX-20)
Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34)
Rep. Ruben Hinojosa (TX-15)
Rep. Grace Napolitano (CA-38)
Rep. Solomon P. Ortiz (TX-27)
Rep. Pedro R. Pierluisi (PR-At large)
Rep. Jared Polis (CO-2)
Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-9)
Rep. Jose E. Serrano (NY-16)
Rep. Anthony Weiner (NY-9)
Other Members of Congress
Ret10Echo
12-15-2009, 19:19
My apologies I did intend for sarcasm but now I realize I put it in the wrong color, been up too long, time for a little shut eye.
I jest......
BUT
Perhaps there should be an official color for a RANT, not to be confused with sarcasm?
Rep. Grace Napolitano (CA-38)
I wonder if she's a relative of our Dept. of Homeboy Security Secretary Janet Napolitano? Wouldn't that be par for the course? :munchin:rolleyes:
What would be the illegal’s motivation to become a citizen at this point? I mean seriously, they can already vote, ACORN has seen to that, they have free health care via our ER's, and as they're illegal there is no credit score to bring down for the unpaid bills, they have jobs and don't currently pay taxes, they operate their vehicles (often with no insurance) and as many don't have US DLs they don't get penalized for not having insurance, their kids get free education paid for by the working US citizens? If they become citizens they'll have to pay taxes, get a license, pay for health care, have insurance etc etc etc, so someone please remind me again why they would want to become documented immigrants or citizens?
But sure give em all citizenship, why not, clearly they respect our laws, speak the language, fit into our culture and don't demand we honor theirs, and aren't a drain on society at all.......oh wait a second......never mind....not sure what I was thinking there.
Why can't we play by their rules? Let's just move in.
Find 1 Million volunteers from 50 states and relocate. It would be tough for WY, ID, MT, UT, CO, NV, NM, AZ. Every volunteer (immigrant), ages 25 - 35, male, prior service. Stay out of Mexico's major urban cities, they represent 70% of the nations population.
[/URL]http://www.seiu.org/2009/12/seiu-statement-on-introduction-of-the-comprehensive-immigration-reform---american-security-and-prosp.php (http://www.seiu.org/2009/12/seiu-statement-on-introduction-of-the-comprehensive-immigration-reform---american-security-and-prosp.php)
Dear Members of Congress:
On November 13th, the Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano reaffirmed President Obama's commitment to achieving comprehensive immigration reform.
Sec. Napolitano said:
"The President is committed to this issue because the need for immigration reform is so clear. This administration does not shy away from taking on the big challenges of the 21st century, challenges that have been ignored too long and hurt our families and businesses. When Congress is ready to act, we'll be ready to support them."
No? This administration is not shying away? Giving in to appease people who are illegal and should have no rights and no voice at the table IS called shying away from big challenges.
I find most Texans I know are not unsympathetic to the plight of the good folks of Mexico. But once the borders of the USA were established, every single one of them that have crossed those borders illegally KNEW they were committing a crime. Why is that ok? We need to take emotions out of this and do what is right.
Current push by the assorted caucuses. I have not seen the Bill text on Thomas as of yet.
Quote:
Comprehensive Immigration Reform to be Introduced December 15
December 11, 2009
Rebecca Dreilinger (202) 225-8203
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Washington D.C.) On Tuesday, December 15, Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez (D-IL) will introduce new legislation, the Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America's Security and Prosperity Act of 2009 (CIR ASAP), to the U.S. House of Representatives. Gutierrez will be joined by members of many different faiths and backgrounds, including the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Black Caucus, Asian Pacific American Caucus and Progressive Caucus.
In the state of Texas, many Asian and Black folk have lost jobs, especially in the trades, to illegal aliens from Mexico. For the Asian and Black caucuses to have joined up with the Hispanics on this is startling. Would love to hear the back room discussion... what have the Asians and Blacks been promised in return for their support?
It's like I am swimming for shore and a storm has set in and I'm starting to tire. Suddenly a Mexican girl swims up and climbs on my back. She may be sweet and pretty and nice, but is it right for her to drown both of us?
This is the side of America I don't understand... those who want everyone to get along and be happy, even if we all drown.
America was not only built on good will, but on strong decision making. Not everyone can win.
HisDisciple
12-16-2009, 01:26
Seems like people these days are handing out U.S. Rights to everybody. Especially criminals. Even if there are millions of illegals in the U.S. It somehow becomes "Less illegal.":rolleyes:
I guess those SEALs who did their duty deserve to feel the wrath of the public appeasement. :mad: Just like Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Alonso Compean felt the wrath. Chamberlain anyone? Heck, we don't kneed the Bill of Rights. We got the U.N Declaration. Congress lol. We got a public option.:rolleyes:
I agree with Team Sergeant and The Reaper. We do need to fight in the ballot boxes. And boot every one out of office that allows illegals to become legal and gives our rights away like no one's every shed a drop of blood for them and unfortunetly still does.
This is the side of America I don't understand... those who want everyone to get along and be happy, even if we all drown.
IMO - It is not about all of us getting along, that is the ruse. It is self interest, it is about getting what 'I' need and whats in it for 'Me'. It is about getting a big house, a 6 figure salary and 2 SUV's in the driveway.
I am waiting until its more profitable to be an illegal alien...
then I'm gonna denounce my citizenship, claim Mexican citizenship and then go get paid!
No more fighting to get my kids a doctors appointment: just take em to the emergency room. no more car insurance, just show Larry lawdawg my mexican ID...
Gonna retire and quit paying my house note! Just gonna sit around all day spraying aerosl hairspray into the air to speed along global warming...
If I could just figure out how to speak spanish!
I want more taxes to pay more benefits for illegals so I can retire early
...baby needs new shoes !!
armymom1228
12-16-2009, 07:56
I am waiting until its more profitable to be an illegal alien...
then I'm gonna denounce my citizenship, claim Mexican citizenship and then go get paid!
No more fighting to get my kids a doctors appointment: just take em to the emergency room. no more car insurance, just show Larry lawdawg my mexican ID...
Gonna retire and quit paying my house note! Just gonna sit around all day spraying aerosl hairspray into the air to speed along global warming...
If I could just figure out how to speak spanish!
I want more taxes to pay more benefits for illegals so I can retire early
...baby needs new shoes !!
Back when such things were for sale. I bought both a Grenandan and a Belizean
Passport. Never know when such things will come in handy. I can always pretend to be from Grenada/Belize...:D
I think I might sneak out of the country, then renenter 'illegally' so I can get all the benefits of my tax dollars. You know free christmas dinner, free toys for tots, free....Of course I shall keep my US Passport hidden in my right shoe. Never know when being an American might benefit me.
Didn't we already visit this whole scenario once before with that 'amnesty' program. There weren't that many takers. The process was long, and expensive as I recall. So why are we going there again? I don't like this buffet, can we dine somewhere else?:confused:
Bordercop
12-16-2009, 08:52
I guess those SEALs who did their duty deserve to feel the wrath of the public appeasement. Just like Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Alonso Compean felt the wrath. Chamberlain anyone? Heck, we don't kneed the Bill of Rights. We got the U.N Declaration. Congress lol. We got a public option.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I have to disagree with this analogy. Ramos and Compean were guilty. They broke the law and were sentenced to prison by a judge and a jury of their peers. They shot an unarmed man, granted he is/was a drug smuggler, in the rearend as he ran away from them. They did not report the shooting, lied under oath about what they did and paid the consequences. I don't feel one bit sorry for them and neither do the majority of Border Patrol Agents. I do what they did for a living and have for 25 years. I have never shot someone for running away from me and doubt that anyone on this board has either.
While you may not agree with it, everyone, and that means illegal aliens too, has the right to due process. That means you don't get to hand out justice
from the barrel of a gun on the border or go fist city on everyone who is breaking the law. We don't do things that way here in the land of the free and the home of the brave.
I have views on this subject, based on first hand expereince, that agree with some of the views expressed here. But don't champion the cause of Ramos and Compean because you think or heard they got the Shit-y end of the Stick.
They took an oath and violated it. They broke the law, plain and simple, and got what every law breaker deserves.
My .02
This is bulls**t!
There are plenty of educated, hard working people in the world that want to become productive members of American society but can't because of the bureaucracy. So, the ones that don't abide by our rules will be given a free pass while the ones that have been stuck in the legal quagmire trying to do the right thing get nothing? :confused:
Maybe if I don't pay my taxes for a decade they'll give me amnesty. They can just take it out of the newly-legalized illegal immigrants' paychecks.
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s110-1348
GratefulCitizen
12-16-2009, 11:30
This is the side of America I don't understand... those who want everyone to get along and be happy, even if we all drown.
America was not only built on good will, but on strong decision making. Not everyone can win.
Respectfully disagree with the zero-sum representation.
There is a way for many to benefit, and it does not have to come at the expense of one another.
I see the issue as one of respect for law and order.
Breaking of the rules cannot be rewarded.
When rule-breaking is rewarded, chaos ensues.
The first step in coming into this country should be an open gesture of respect for the laws and authority of the land, not blatant disrespect of the system from which you hope to benefit.
Ever notice how insistent the Admins of this board are about proper introductions?
Tone-setting matters.
ZonieDiver
12-16-2009, 12:19
Ever notice how insistent the Admins of this board are about proper introductions?
Tone-setting matters.
Very well-said, GC.
I worked on the 2004 campaign of a former student (lonnnnng ago) who was running in the Republican primary against Rep. Jeff Flake in District 6 (East Valley). One of his main areas of disagreement with Flake was on the issue of immigration. His campaign signs featured a portion of the Arizona flag with the words "Secure the Border" in the center. His point was that ANY immigration "reform" is POINTless unless we stop the flow across the border first!
We have not yet accomplished that - so ANY reform is premature IMHO.
IMO - It is not about all of us getting along, that is the ruse. It is self interest, it is about getting what 'I' need and whats in it for 'Me'. It is about getting a big house, a 6 figure salary and 2 SUV's in the driveway.
Paslode,
Can you explain a little further...not sure I am getting your point.
Thanks,
o5
Respectfully disagree with the zero-sum representation.
There is a way for many to benefit, and it does not have to come at the expense of one another.
I see the issue as one of respect for law and order.
Breaking of the rules cannot be rewarded.
When rule-breaking is rewarded, chaos ensues.
The first step in coming into this country should be an open gesture of respect for the laws and authority of the land, not blatant disrespect of the system from which you hope to benefit.
Ever notice how insistent the Admins of this board are about proper introductions?
Tone-setting matters.
I agree with you GC on respect for law and order, and that tone setting matters.
I was referencing our inability to make immigration reform decisions without being afraid we would hurt someone. Those tough decisions have to be made for the long term best interests of all citizens, and some non-citizens may not like the result.
We've allowed many illegals to enter our country throughout the years as political refugees. With Mexico, it is mostly not refugees flooding across the borders, but those desiring a better way of life. In my family we don't support pardoning a criminal act just so a person can have a better life.
Paslode,
Can you explain a little further...not sure I am getting your point.
Thanks,
o5
The Make US Feel Good organizations, the many so-called charities, social causes and social programs......a cottage industry of scams. They take on causes for the down trodden, they take in billions through donations, grants and subsidies, yet distribute mere pennies of every dollar received to those they represent...... yet many that run these entities live like Kings!
Where are ACORN and Jesse Jackson without 'racism' and the under privileged? They are out of a job.
So what I am saying is the reason some are promoting acceptance of illegal immigrants is due to self interest and not the issue. It is scheme to line ones pocket with cash and increase their power....and it is at every tax payers expense and detriment.
SEUI and La Raza is all for it because it will line their pockets with cash and political clout. Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill. wants to keep his job and keep his campaign donations rolling in.......the list goes on and on.
So what I am saying is the reason some are promoting acceptance of illegal immigrants is due to self interest and not the issue. It is scheme to line ones pocket with cash and increase their power....and it is at every tax payers expense and detriment.
Got it! I thought you were going down another course. Thanks...
Team Sergeant
12-16-2009, 16:25
So what I am saying is the reason some are promoting acceptance of illegal immigrants is due to self interest and not the issue. It is scheme to line ones pocket with cash and increase their power....and it is at every tax payers expense and detriment.
And the very reason someone on here called them "illegal Democrats".;)
And why are La Raza and so many other Pro-Immigration advocates pressing this issue.........Power in numbers! Based on this article one could surmise that the White Majority is sowing the seeds of it's demise through immigration......you want to shot me but have no bullets? Here let me give you the ammo to do it!
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091216/ap_on_go_ot/us_white_minority
White Americans' majority to end by mid-century
By HOPE YEN, Associated Press Writer Hope Yen, Associated Press Writer Wed Dec 16, 11:08 am ET
WASHINGTON – The estimated time when whites will no longer make up the majority of Americans has been pushed back eight years — to 2050 — because the recession and stricter immigration policies have slowed the flow of foreigners into the U.S.
Census Bureau projections released Wednesday update last year's prediction that white children would become a minority in 2023 and the overall white population would follow in 2042. The earlier estimate did not take into account a drop in the number of people moving into the U.S. because of the economic crisis and the immigration policies imposed after the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks.
The United States has 308 million people today; two-thirds are non-Hispanic whites.
The total population should climb to 399 million by 2050, under the new projections, with whites making up 49.9 percent of the population. Blacks will make up 12.2 percent, virtually unchanged from today. Hispanics, currently 15 percent of the population, will rise to 28 percent in 2050.
Asians are expected to increase from 4.4 percent of the population to 6 percent.
The projections are based on rates for births and deaths and a scenario in which immigration continues its more recent, slower pace of adding nearly 1 million new foreigners each year.
The point when minority children become the majority is expected to have a similar delay of roughly eight years, moving from 2023 to 2031.
The population 85 and older is projected to more than triple by 2050, to 18.6 million.
The actual shift in demographics will be influenced by a host of factors that can't be accurately forecast — the pace of the economic recovery, cultural changes, natural or manmade disasters, as well as an overhaul of immigration law, which may be debated in Congress as early as next year.
As a result, the Census Bureau said the projections should used mostly as a guide.
The agency also released numbers showing projections based on "high" rates of immigration — more likely if more-flexible government policies and a booming U.S. economy attract large numbers of foreigners — as well as "low" immigration, a possible scenario if U.S. policies don't change much while the economy substantially improves.
_With high immigration, the minority "tipping point" is moved up to 2040, two years earlier than the previous estimate. At that time, Asians would have a much larger share, at 8 percent, since their population growth is more dependent on immigration than birth rates.
_With low immigration, the "tipping point" arrives by 2045.
Under a purely theoretical "zero immigration" scenario in which the U.S. effectively does not take in any immigrants, whites would remain the majority in 2050, making up a solid 58 percent of the U.S. population. In such a case, the share of Hispanics would increase to 21 percent because of high fertility rates and a younger population.
___
On the Net:
Census Bureau: http://www.census.gov