An overview of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 summarizes legislative developments prior to passage of the bill, describes major elements of the legislation, discusses the activities of the National Council of La Raza in monitoring implementation of the law, and emphasizes the necessary role of the network of Hispanic community-based organizations. The report provides a legislative history from September 19, 1985 to final passage of the bill. A description of the bill summarizes employer sanctions, anti-discrimination provisions, legalization, H-2 and special seasonal agricultural workers, and the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program. A list of four objectives of the Hispanic community in implementing the immigration bill includes: minimizing discrimination, maximizing participation in the legalization program, preventing abuse/exploitation of native and foreign agricultural workers, and eliminating wrongful denial of benefits to eligible persons. A summary of National Council of La Raza activities includes preparation of press statements, convening task forces to work closely with federal agencies to draft regulations to implement provisions of the new law, coordinating information dissemination to the public, and identifying problem areas requiring remedial legislation or Congressional oversight. Suggestions for types of information needed from local groups are included. House and Senate voting records are attached. (LFL)