What do we do with the 12 million?

Jamie wants to know what to do with the 12 million illegal immigrants already here.

I'm wondering what your thoughts are on what to do with the current population of illegal immigrants. This issue is very intriguing to me, but I have yet to come to any solid conclusions.

It's a great question, and honestly, I've been avoiding the issue. Part of the reason is that I think the biggest issue right now is border security. I've said before that until we actually have control of our borders, sending the 12 million people that are here illegally back home is pointless, as they'll just cross the border again.

But, assuming we get control of the borders, we'll still have 12 million people breaking the law, and we need to do something about it.

Fundamentally, I don't believe in amnesty - giving those who are already here citizenship. They've broken the law. Do we want to enforce our laws or not?

Fundamentally, I believe we need to deport anyone here illegally, because I believe in law enforcement. Law enforcement is the reason I now consistently drive within 5 mph of the speed limit. If law enforcement officials hadn't stopped me, I'd still be breaking the law by speeding. Similarly, if we don't enforce our immigration laws, they'll continue to be broken.

I also understand that deporting 12 million people is not only virtually impossible, but it would be an enormous expense to our government, and by default to us as taxpayers. Therefore, I would support allowing those here illegally to have a path to legal residency. They shouldn't get preference for full citizenship over those trying to get it legally through their own countries, but they should have an option to become legal residents.

My thinking doesn't completely line up with H.R. 4437, the immigration bill sponsored by Wisconsin Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner that really set this debate on fire. I wouldn't make anyone here illegally a felon, simply because it doesn't make much sense to make 12 million people felons overnight. As it is, deported illegal immigrants must wait 10 years before being allowed back in. I think that's a big enough penalty.

I could see an immigration plan working something like this:

1. A 90-day waiting period during which illegal immigrants can purchase a temporary worker's permit.
2. Consideration for citizenship for those brought here as children.
3. Deport anyone found here illegally after the 90-day waiting period. No exceptions. Start enforcing our laws.

If you find holes in it or disagree, let me know.

UPDATE: I should add that I think there should be penalties for employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants.