Earlier, the Senate approved an amendment that would allow immigrant workers to apply for permanent residence without the sponsorship of their employers.
The amendment, offered by Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John McCain, was intended to prevent "abuse of employees," according to Senator Kennedy. It was adopted by a vote of 56 to 43. "The self-petition gives the worker some rights and respect as an employee," Mr. Kennedy said.
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/05/18/washington/18cnd-immig.html?ex=1148184000&en=1e54c07e65a69e61&ei=5087%0A