Wilson to Introduce Private Immigration Bill on Behalf of Tolani Family

Today, Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) announced that he will introduce a private immigration bill when the House comes back in session next week on behalf of Hitesh and Jaya Tolani."The Tolanis are facing extraordinary circumstances and I have offered to do whatever the family feels is appropriate to help them in their fight against deportation," said Rep. Wilson. "Having sons near the ages of Hitesh and his brother, Ravi, I have a very personal concern for this case."The bill, being introduced at the request of the Tolani family, will seek permanent United States residency for Jaya Tolani and her son, Hitesh, a Wofford College student. Congressmen Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Henry Brown (R-S.C.), Jim DeMint (R-S.C.) and John Spratt (D-S.C.) will be original co-sponsors of the legislation.Jaya's husband, Gulab Tolani, died in 1995 before he and his family could have their application for permanent U.S. residency addressed, and now Jaya and her son Hitesh face deportation proceedings. Jaya's second son, Ravi, was born in the United States and therefore is an American citizen and is not in danger of being deported."A private bill is a rare thing, yet Hitesh and his mother have a compelling case," said Rep. Lindsey Graham. "No one wants to see this family broken apart."###