|
March 16, 2010
Contact: Jason Llorenz
202-434-8070
Coalition of Over 300 State Legislators Call for Immigration Reform to Spur Economic Recovery and Healthier America
National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators Resolution Shows Momentum for Immigration Reform in 2010
Washington, D.C. - State legislators from across the country are urging Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform this year. Citing the ongoing poor policy towards immigrants and an overburdened naturalization process, the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) today released a resolution calling on the 111th Congress to take legislative action to fix the broken system.
“America needs an immigration system that fuels our economy through hard work and entrepreneurship, and finally brings families from the shadows. Our poor national policy is leaving millions of immigrant communities stuck in limbo – hindering their full participation in this country’s economic growth. We urge Congress to take up and enact sensible immigration reform that helps America move forward,” said Senator Iris Y. Martinez (IL.), NHCSL President.
A recent study found that immigration reform would add $1.5 trillion to the economy and generate up to $5.4 billion in new tax revenues. Common-sense immigration reform will create a level playing field for all workers and employers by protecting low-wage workers and punishing unscrupulous employers who exploit hard working immigrants, while increasing tax revenues for cities, states, and the federal government.
Comprehensive immigration reform would enhance border security, require employers to enforce immigration laws and level the playing field for law-abiding employers and workers, create a pathway to citizenship, and treat immigrants humanely.
The NHCSL resolution comes on the heels of a nationwide escalation of efforts to pass comprehensive immigration reform this calendar year. Citizens at 100 events in 28 states across the country expressed their commitment to comprehensive immigration reform as they joined forces at town hall meetings, marches, rallies, and vigils.
# # #
The NHCSL is the premier national association of Hispanic state legislators working to design and implement policies and procedures that will improve the quality of life for Hispanics throughout the country. NHCSL was founded in 1989 as a nonpartisan, nonprofit 501(c)3 with the mission to be the most effective voice for the more than 300 Hispanic legislators. For more information visit www.nhcsl.org.
|
