Debate over a sweeping immigration reform bill rages on in the Senate, but a Thursday vote may make or break the legislation.
Members of both parties attempted to add amendments to the bipartisan compromise Wednesday, but the proposals failed and the bill survived. The bill would help 12 million illegal immigrants begin the process towards citizenship, crack down on employment of undocumented workers, and tighten border security.
A proposal from the right that tried to deny a path to citizenship for illegal immigrants and a Democratic bid to reunite legal immigrants with family members fell short, and the bill could be finished in the Senate by week's end - if bill backers can muster 60 votes on Thursday.
Votes on key amendments were continuing Wednesday under a complex and carefully orchestrated procedure designed to overcome stalling tactics by conservative foes. It allowed votes only on a limited list of amendments before Thursday's critical test vote.
Powered by iNet Solutions Group ©2011 All Rights Reserved.