Senators eye compromise on border security

Associated Press

WASHINGTON

After secretive talks, key senators expressed optimism Wednesday night that they were closing in on a bipartisan agreement to toughen the border security requirements in immigration legislation that also offers a path to citizenship to millions living in the country illegally.

Under the emerging compromise, the government would grant legal status to immigrants living in the U.S. unlawfully at the same time the additional security was being put into place. Green cards, which signify permanent residency status, would be withheld until security steps were complete.

If agreed to, the change has the potential to give a powerful boost to the immigration bill.