On a 12-5 vote, the committee approved a measure that would allow illegal immigrants to earn green cards, allowing them to remain legally - and eventually obtain citizenship - if they agree to spend six years as temporary workers; pay $2,000 in fines and all back taxes; undergo criminal background checks, and show proficiency in English and civics."What we are saying here is: We want to at least give you an opportunity to earn your right to become an American citizen," said Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., who authored the legalization with Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz.But Sen. Jon Kyl, R-Ariz., complained bitterly that the committee's action gives illegal immigrants a leg up over green card-seekers who have followed the law, remaining in their own country - sometimes for a decade or more - while waiting for their paperwork to be processed."It is not fair to those who have been playing by the rules," Kyl said.
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