…who’s familiar with Capitol Hill, its workings, and the bishops, on the immigration issue:

I noticed that this immigration issue has started popping up on the blogs.  It’s true that the bill creates a new class of felony
re illegal immigration.  What many people are omitting from this debate is that an amendment was put in front of the House
of Representatives that would STRIKE the provision the Bishops are so concerned about.  This amendment was offered after
numerous complaints by Democrats and Republicans alike regarding the language.

This amendment failed, primarilly because of Democratic opposition  (see Roll Call Vote 655).  Now, of course, it’s being
used by the Democrats to tar the Republicans for being anti-immigrant.  Whatever. 

The original amendment can be found here. 

The Description of the Amendment is as follows….

Sensenbrenner #133
At the Administration’s request, reduces the maximum sentence for illegal entry and illegal presence to six months. (10 minutes)

And another note from the same source:

The amendment I was speaking of was not the assisting illegals issue, but creating a new felony for illegals in general.  The Bishops have been very active in saying things about this.  But, as per usual, their lobbyists are nowhere to be seen.