ATLANTA (June 12, 2013) –Georgia Legislators urge U.S. Senators Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson to vote “no” on the proposed federal immigration bill currently being considered in the U.S. Senate. In a letter sent to Senators Chambliss and Isakson on Tuesday, Georgia State Senators, including Senate Judiciary Chairman Josh McKoon, outlined what they believe to be proactive solutions to U.S. immigration reform.
“While we undoubtedly need to address the complex issue of immigration reform, we must ensure we’re doing what’s right for all Americans, especially the people of Georgia,” said Sen. McKoon. “In its current form, the proposed immigration bill would likely come at a high cost to taxpayers, leave unresolved security issues along the border and grant amnesty to countless illegal immigrants. While we wholeheartedly support legal paths to immigration, it is important we are respectful to the countless immigrants who obtained their citizenship through legal channels.”
As part of the letter sent to Congress, Georgia Legislators highlighted several areas of concern as it relates to the long-term effects of federal immigration reform and its ability to:
- Maintain tight security along the borders at our ports and other national points of entry
- Provide a fair, equitable path to citizenship
- Ensure a cost effective solution that relives taxpayers and local governments from the astronomical costs associated with immigration
Immigration is not only an issue at the federal level, but has recently come up for debate in Georgia. During the 2011 Legislative Session, the Georgia General Assembly passed House Bill 87. Through the passage of this bill, companies with more than 10 employees are required to use the free and quick E-Verify program to ensure prospective employees are legal U.S. Citizens. It also allows law enforcement to check immigration status of suspects during the regular investigation of criminal acts.
HB 87 was revisited during the 2013 Legislative Session through the passage of SB 160. This bill clarifies and streamlines the verification process when applying for or renewing business licenses and public benefits.
RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
June 12, 2013
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Interim Director
Shawna Mercer, Sr. Communications Specialist
Shawna.Mercer@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028