StoryComments 04November 14, 2009 in News
Idaho: Legistation to identify illegal workers needed
Bert Caldwell The Spokesman-Review


North Idaho Sen. Mike Jorgenson, who wants state employers to check worker immigration status, said Saturday high unemployment and state budget woes may finally overcome farm and business opposition to such a requirement.

Jorgenson-authored immigration legislation has failed to get a hearing the last two sessions. But with more than 66,000 in Idaho jobless, and a $50 million budget gap, a hearing would unleash popular support for measures that discourage the hiring of illegal immigrants, he said.

“We can’t afford to take care of ourselves,â€