WASHINGTON- A Republican effort to create a new green card category for immigrants who have received science, technology, engineering and math doctorates and masters degrees from U.S. universities was soundly rejected by one of the nation's most radical immigrant advocates Congressman Luis Gutierrez (IL-4) Friday. Joining Gutierrez in opposition to the STEM Jobs Act were five Illinois Democrats House members - Davis, Lipinski, Quigley, Rush and Schakowsky. Costello did not appear and Jackson Jr resigned his seat earlier this.
The Illinois Republican delegation voted as a bloc in support of the STEM Act, except Manzullo, who was not present for the vote. Delegation leader Congressman Peter Roskam said the STEM Visa reform would help create jobs.
"Today Congress took an important, common sense step towards economic growth and substantive immigration reform. STEM Visa reform gives us the opportunity to create new jobs, stay competitive globally and advance American innovation. Our country boasts the best universities that attract, educate and train the best and brightest in the world. Under the STEM Act, those skilled graduates can stay in the United States and at the cutting edge of technology, creating jobs and opportunity.
Roskam said the STEM Act removes roadblocks that constrict American entrepreneurs and small businesses by putting them and their priorities first. "I am proud that this bipartisan legislation has passed the House of Representatives and look forward to continuing to champion American ingenuity, opportunity and job growth," he said in a press release.
Altogether, ten Democrats from outside Illinois joined 233 Republican House members that supported the STEM Act.
