Raligh News & Observer
Published: Friday, October 6, 2000 12:10 p.m. EDT
Black lawmakers oppose work visa bill


RALEIGH (AP) -- U.S. Rep. Eva Clayton and other black lawmakers have asked
President Clinton to veto a bill that expands the number of temporary work
visas available to skilled foreign workers.
Clayton, D-N.C., said the legislation, passed Tuesday at the urging of
high-tech companies, doesn't do enough to help U.S. workers.
"We understand their critical need for trained employees in this expanding
industry," Clayton said Thursday at a news conference sponsored by the
Congressional Black Caucus. "We simply wanted to include some opportunities
for American workers, particularly rural Americans."
Clayton said she had prepared some amendments to the bill, which she was
never able to offer because the legislation was passed without proper notice
when most members weren't present.
Clayton said her amendments "would have made sure that those living in rural
America will have the opportunity to secure positions in the rapidly
expanding job market as employers look outside the United States to bring in
foreign workers."
One of the provisions, for example, would have dedicated some of the revenue
from visa application fees to expanding Internet access and high-tech
training in rural areas, she said.
Rep. Mel Watt, North Carolina's other member of the caucus, did not attend.
In an interview, Watt said he "wouldn't object one iota" if the bill were
vetoed.
Watt said he wanted amendments to address several other immigration issues,
including changes in law to help Latinos seeking permanent residency in the
United States.
Watt said he was confident that Congress still has time to adopt an improved
version of the bill, which addresses H-1B visas, if Clinton vetoes what is
before him.
Clinton championed the visa legislation, however, and is unlikely to risk
jeopardizing its passage.
"We're not committing to anything at this point, but the bill looks good,"
White House spokesman Jason Schechter said Thursday afternoon