Yes, exactly. And that would mean asking ... actually inquiring ... as to immigration status. Asking at schools, hospitals, apartment rental form, when applying for a mortgage, when stopped by the police, etc. It's simple - "Just Ask".
The contribution of illegal immigrants to the mortgage meltdown is huge. But we'll never really know because nobody ever ... asked.

I dont think anyone in washington has a clue. I agree that we ought to stop providing free services for illegal immigrants such as medical, education, retirement, etc. If you havent payed into the system, you shouldnt be allowed to reap the benefits.
As for what to do with those already here...Im all for the fine and grant greencard approach. Yea, they illegally came over here, but many have been here 10-15 yrs and have proven they can hold a job and be productive members of society. So, penalize them with the back taxes they owe, and move on. Make sure going forward they are filling the tax couffers.
America has always been about new oppertunities and been seen as a "light at the end of a tunnel". These people have suffered unbelievable odds to get where they are. From the trip itself to having to live in fear for years of being deported.

Now, thats our "current" issue. We absolutely need to strengthen our borders..including the freakin HUGE border up north. Everyone wants to say how Mexico is a threat. Our Al-Queida terrorists that leveled NYC came from the Canadian border. Also, on a going forward bases, require proof of legal status to recieve a drivers license, state ID, etc. And require that ID be presented for everything from writing a check to buying a car. That takes care of privacy concerns (the check is done at the DMV office one time, not by local police officers) as well as the resistance to a federal ID for all.

So what do you suggest be done with those illegals who have been here less than 10 years? And those who have proven that they can't hold down a job?

Why didn't NPR list Ron Paul here? Not only does he have the best policy for cracking down on illegal immigration, but his foreign policy will help prevent it. Americans, do you know what your government does in other countries? Watch John Pilger's "War on Democracy" Have some public screenings of this film at your local library. People in the U.S. need to know what's really going on http://vid...9629840148

When you see what a good job the U.S. government has done at bringing democracy to Latin America, you probably won't trust them to bring democracy to the Middle East. Actually you should watch the PBS documentary "Constitution in Crisis" if you want more information on that http://mrx...government