http://www.scchamber.net/mx/hm.asp?id=home


April 30, 2007
For Immediate Release Contact: Marcia Purday, APR
Phone: 803-799-4601
Businesses Call for Federal Immigration Reform
Columbia, SC - A coalition of organizations representing a variety of industries and businesses called on Congress Monday for meaningful comprehensive immigration reform. The group outlined the devastating impact strict limits on migrant workers could have on the state’s economy, approaching billions of dollars. The coalition also called on the S.C. General Assembly to adjourn debate on the issue and to leave the matter to federal authorities to resolve.

Representatives with the hospitality, agribusiness, construction, homebuilders, and other industries told reporters the nation’s immigration system is broken, and Americans are paying the price. Coalition members voiced concerns that proposed state laws will not work because they may conflict with federal laws, causing confusion and placing unreasonable liability and financial burden on business owners.

South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Vice President for Public Policy Otis Rawl said, “Immigration is a federal issue and should be resolved by Congress. State-by-state mandates and piecemeal approaches destroy gains in the economy. Businesses should not be strapped with compliance burdens. Many small businesses already face out-of-control workers’ compensation and health care costs. Adding another state-mandated burden will only move South Carolina backward in raising per capita income.â€