SENATORS/WHITE HOUSE AGREE ON IMMIGRATION OVERHAUL

A group of key senators from both parties reached agreement with the White House May 17 on an immigration measure that would offer a path to legal status to millions of illegal immigrants already in the United States and provide increased border restrictions to thwart future illegal entries.

Included in the legislation is a somewhat modified version of the AgJobs bill, pushed by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., and Sen. Larry Craig, R-Idaho, that would create a five-year pilot program to legalize immigration status for those who have worked in U.S. agriculture for at least 150 days over the previous two years.

The deal came after weeks of negotiations between liberal Democrats, conservative Republicans and members of the Bush Cabinet.

The measure is expected to encounter tough negotiations on the Senate floor the week of May 21.

A major element of the compromise was a "point system" that places a higher value on immigrants' education and skill level than on family connections in granting green cards.