This is pure sensationalism designed to sway those without the ability or desire to educate themselves on its provisions. Only knowingly aiding and abetting someone who is here illegally to remain here in defiance of the law is illegal.
I suspect that most here making those types of claims are full aware of their basic falsehood. HR 4437 is an exceptionally well conceived and written piece of legislation that will have exactly the desired effect of greatly reducing illegal immigration (which is why its' detractors are so vehemently opposed to it).
What does it say about priests or ministers who KNOW that an illegal alien is illegal, yet gives him food and water and sends him on his way?
There is either sufficient obscurity in the language to lead to the conclusion that criminal penalties could extend to clergy and social workers if they assist illegals, or the bishops who have spoken out have cleverly seized upon an impression of HR 4437 that have caused its authors to make certain that the language is clear where ministry and physical assistance is concerned.
The House bill as it stands is not going to become law and will accommodate Senate provisions or there will be no bill passed at all.
"HR 4437 does not criminalize humanitarian assistance, nor does it criminalize anyone who is unaware of a criminal alien's unlawful presence in our country, nor does it criminalize a priest ministering communion.
This is pure sensationalism designed to sway those without the ability or desire to educate themselves on its provisions. Only knowingly aiding and abetting someone who is here illegally to remain here in defiance of the law is illegal.
Full Text HR 4437
I suspect that most here making those types of claims are full aware of their basic falsehood. HR 4437 is an exceptionally well conceived and written piece of legislation that will have exactly the desired effect of greatly reducing illegal immigration (which is why its' detractors are so vehemently opposed to it)."
As a Catholic, I am ashamed to see such blatant misbehavior by my own church's hierarchy.