Work Permits for Illegal Aliens

ktul.com
by: Burt Mummolo
Updated: Dec 08, 2011 6:41 PM EST

The number of vehicles outside Plaza Santa Cecelia, don't quite number what they used to.

"Every weekend this whole parking lot would be filled up but that just doesn't happen any more," said Pedro Arroyo.

When HB 1804 became law, the folks at Carolina's Jewelry Repair, felt the sting.

"Ever since then it's been at least 25% less than it has been the year before," said Arroyo.

Across the hall at La Chiquita, the damage to the bottom line was even worse.

"It really hit us hard because I lost like 70% of my customers," said Josephine Olmos. She had to move her store to find a more affordable rent, and still...

"There's been thoughts about closing," she said.

But finally, a glimmer of hope with word of a new bill that would legally allow illegals to work in Oklahoma, Senate bill 995, provided they're over 18 and pay a $2,000 permit fee. Employers would have to provide basic health insurance. Workers can not have any felonies, and immediate family members are allowed to live here for a $500 per person permit fee.

"I believe that everybody should get a chance, and if they're over here working, not doing anything bad, you know, give 'em a chance," said Olmos.

A second chance, not only for illegals, but for local businesses as well, cause as it is now...

"Don't want to say that it's killing our business, but it's getting really, really close," said Arroyo.

http://www.ktul.com/story/16223011/work ... gal-aliens