The lower chamber of the Spanish Parliament has approved an immigration reform bill that would crack down on people entering the country illegally and makes it harder for foreigners with residency to bring over their relatives, according to AP. The Socialist government, which sponsored the bill, says it has to curb the influx of foreign workers because Spain"s economic recession has led to a 17.9 percent unemployment rate. The bill also establishes new rights for some immigrants, such as unaccompanied children, and young workers. The bill was passed Thursday by a vote of 185 in favor, 146 against and 4 abstentions. It now needs to be also approved by the Senate before it becomes law. 291607 oct 09GMT
