When a single, somewhat less-than-wild bear runs loose through Springfield, towns-people demand that Mayor Quimby take action to stop the “infestation.” Quimby responds by forming a bear patrol unit, which, in turn, ends up costing taxpayers an additional five dollars per person. Outraged by the tax increase, an angry mob storms City Hall. Quimby tells townspeople that taxes are higher because of illegal immigrants, and announces a referendum called Proposition 24 which, if adopted into law, would mean the deportation of all illegal aliens from the city. Homer embraces the anti-immigrant fever sweeping the land. On a trip to the Kwik-E-Mart, Homer learns that Apu is an illegal immigrant. At first, Homer tells Apu he never considered how the measure might affect someone he cared about. But in almost the same breath, he tells Apu how much he’s going to miss him.

Apu recounts to Marge how he left his native land to study at an American university. But he did not feel it proper to return home without first repaying his student loans. After hearing the story, Marge promises to vote against the proposition. Out of desperation, Apu purchases fake identification documents from Fat Tony, adopts an American accent, and pretends to be as American as apple pie. But he realizes his scheme is a betrayal of his Indian heritage and drops the charade. Moved by Apu’s determination, Homer vows to help his friend avoid deportation.

Lisa realizes that Apu qualifies for amnesty and can therefore apply for American citizenship. With only three days left to study for the test, and Homer acting as tutor, Apu hits the books. Exhausted from his efforts, Apu nonetheless manages to pass the test, and he is granted citizenship.