I read your posting and I am so glad there is an informed, sensible, thoughtful person out there in Freeperland.
The majority who post about the illegal situation don't know what they are talking about and are merely reactionary.
We do have a huge immigration problem. Actually we are in the midst of a mass migration, and it is worldwide. The peoples from the Southern Hemisphere are moving north in vast numbers to join the developed countries. This is creating strain everywhere.
We need to recognize, as you are well aware, we have many millions of illegal immigrants here already who are a functioning and necessary part of the workforce and the economy. The humane and wise thing to do is to give them legal status.
That legal status might be worker permits. It is dangerous to us, and inhumane to them, to keep them below the radar screen.
1) Simplify entry requirements with Mexico, especially. If a person can demonstrate they have a) no communicable diseases, b) no criminal background c) a job waiting, d) an understanding, illustrated by a signed contract, that US social services are UNAVAILABLE to non citizens (other than access to public schools and life saving medical emergencies), and 4) an understanding, illustrated by a signed contract that failure to file taxes is grounds for immediate visa revocation and expulsion......, we should let them in on yearly, renewable visas. Processing fees for these people should run from 3-4 thousand dollars (makes sense that they would fund it, right?)
2)For illegals already here, the same med requirements, coupled with no felony convictions, have all tax filings up to date, and gainfully employed. The difference is that these people should pay a processing fee of 2-3 times the people at the border, because they DID violate the process and "jump line." There should be a penalty to do so.
This would take the pressure off the border It should be EASY to get in LEGALLY, and DIFFICULT to get in ILLEGALLY, but of course, we have it upside down. (I feel like I should do an Al Gore imitation with that LEGAL/ILLEGAL, but you get the picture).
That seems humane, respectful of the law, cognizant of the reality of the situation, and a way to gain control of the borders. I don't see why people on Free Republic won't support it.