He told a naturalisation ceremony that immigrants “shaped America’s identity” and were vital to the economy.
In its first step to full legislation, the bill has been passed by the Senate Judiciary Committee and now goes to the full Senate on Tuesday for debate.
The bill has been attacked by both conservatives and pro-immigrant groups.
President Bush’s Republican Party is divided over his plans to create a guest-worker scheme allowing foreigners to stay for a set time in specific jobs.
Meanwhile, thousands have taken to the streets across the US in protest at plans within the bill to criminalise illegal workers.
Source: BBC News
