In November 1994 , California voters passed Proposition 187 amending the state constitution , denying state financial aid to illegal immigrants . The federal courts voided this change , ruling that it violated the federal constitution . Appointed by Bill Clinton , the U.S. Commission on Immigration Reform recommended reducing legal immigration from about 800,000 people per year to approximately 550,000 . While an influx of new residents from different cultures presents some challenges , " the United States has always been energized by its immigrant populations , " said President Bill Clinton in 1998 . " America has constantly drawn strength and spirit from wave after wave of immigrants ... They have proved to be the most restless , the most adventurous , the most innovative , the most industrious of people . " In 2001 , President George W. Bush discussed an accord with Mexican President Vincente Fox . Possible accord was derailed by the September 11 attacks . From 2005 to 2013 , the US Congress discussed various ways of controlling immigration . The Senate and House were unable to reach an agreement
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Immigration to the United States