Just saw Steven Camarota discuss what the '86 law said, "Amnesty for 3 million already hear, immediately begin protecting borders, severely punish businesses who hire illegals and TA DA (Drum roll please) Never again grant amnesty to any more illegals.
As you have explained in your post, they made a lot of noise and promises amid much fanfare and public bluster. In the end they did nothing. It happened then, and it will happen now.