A Senate bill that aims to revamp immigration policy cleared an important procedural hurdle on June 26, keeping the controversial measure alive. Lawmakers voted 64-35 to limit debate on the bill, four more than the 60 required by Senate rules. The action moves matters closer to a floor vote on the legislation itself. The bill's passage, however, is by no means assured.

President Bush says that the current immigration system "isn't working" and supports the Senate measure. It would tighten border security and also establish a temporary-worker program and a way for illegal immigrants now in the U.S. to eventually become citizens. But conservatives have opposed the bill, contending that it amounts to "amnesty" for those who are in the U.S. illegally.