Democrats and adult Republicans in the Senate have agreed on a compromise. Yes, we can have a secure border and no, we don't have to treat immigrants -- and the American industries that need them -- like criminals.

We can provide a path for LEGAL immigration that is not easy and fair but still easier and safer than a potentially deadly trek across the desert. A guest worker program is NOT amnesty.

But Republican knuckle-draggers in the House think they can solve the problem by "getting tough." Build a fence -- which border cops laugh at. Threaten immigrants with hard jail time -- like we can afford it and like people who face death in the desert are scared by a warm bed and three squares. Threaten employers with stiff fines -- as if anyone believes it will be enforced against vital businesses, such as the fruit-growers in the Pacific Northwest.

They are wrong.

The legislation isn't perfect. No compromise is. But the Senate version is likely the best we can hope for in a political climate populated by unethical rightwing fanatics eager to play on the ignorant hate and blind fear of post-9/11 America.

Let's enforce the laws!

Tax laws. Fireworks laws. Smoking laws. Seat belt laws. Public intoxication laws. Sodomy laws. Zoning laws. Minimum wage laws. Anti-discrimination laws. Pesticide use laws. Child labor laws. Mining safety laws. Oh, yes, we are a nation of laws, all right.