After Aiding Bill on Immigration, Employers Balk-NYTIMES

[Jim Warren]

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/21/washington/21immig.html

Employers, who helped shape a major immigration bill over the last three months, said on Sunday that they were unhappy with the result because it would not cure the severe labor shortages they foresee in the coming decade.

In addition, employers expressed alarm as they learned that the Senate bill would require them to check a government database to verify that all current and former employees — aliens and citizens alike — were eligible to work in the United States.

The Senate begins debating the bill on Monday. Supporters, including the White House, had hoped that senators would finish work on it this week, before the Memorial Day recess. But leading members of Congress said Sunday that the bill would take more time and could face significant hurdles. A delay over Memorial Day would give the public an opportunity to weigh the issue, while lawmakers are home, and would give critics more time to hone their arguments.


Randel K. Johnson of the United States Chamber of Commerce.

US Chamber of Commerce and "employers". Hmmmm
No, wouldn't want members of Congress to be influenced by their districts.

[Deja Q]

1. Labor? Funny who is classified as "under qualified" and who is "overqualified"

Whatever.

[snappyturtle]

2. Why should employers have to verify eligibility?

They want cheap labor with no responsibility. I say they have had it their way for a long time. Laws have been ignored and now this is the fine mess we find ourselves in.

edit: Question: In what markets do these corporate types see an upcoming shortage? Kay Bailey Hutchinson, Sen. from TX., said that in a response to me. I wrote back and asked her this question. Haven't heard back yet. Just curious.