Critics allege that the bill provides amnesty to millions who have broken the law. The feasibility of tracking, finding and transporting illegal immigrants back to their countries of origin has been questioned, as have the moral implications of separating families in the process. Economic analysts are worried about the impact the expulsion of low-wage immigrants will have on the job market. Parents are concerned that children of illegal aliens could make use of free public school resources. Hispanics, among others, have criticised the English proficiency requirement. Liberals call the bill “unfair and unworkable,” conservatives call it an inexcusable amnesty. Riddled with compromises, it satisfies almost no one.

The bill would be an admirable effort to find a solution if only it were workable. As it is, few illegal immigrants are likely to accept such small compensation for the substantial costs and uncertainty that the bill would impose upon them. Though the debate surrounding illegal immigration may not directly impact H-1B seekers, the continuing formation of American national identity will.

The writer researches American foreign policy toward South Asia in Washington D.C.