Here we go...businesses making big noise about following current immigration laws.
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Oregon nursery group criticizes tougher federal measures

Friday, August 10, 2007

News Release from: Oregon Assn. of Nurseries

NURSERY ASSOCIATION RESPONDS TO DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY ANNOUNCEMENT OF GREATER IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT MEASURES

Posted: August 10th, 2007 5:31 PM

Wilsonville - Oregon Association of Nurseries Director of Government Relations Jeff Stone responded sharply to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announcement of a series of reforms the Bush Administration made addressing worksite enforcement provisions.

"This new regulation may mean the loss of an element critical to the industry's success," said Stone. "The rule is more likely to force domestic farm production overseas, than in sending illegal immigrants back home."

The nursery and greenhouse industry is Oregon's largest sector of agriculture with annual sales of more than $875 million annually. With a labor force of 21,000 Oregonians, access to a skilled agricultural workforce is a critical part of the industry's success.

Stone also raised concern about the socially divisive nature of the rule, "This will foment greater fear of our workforce—one that has been a part of our industry as long as this country has had an agriculture industry" he said.

"This is just another example of why Congress must pass a comprehensive immigration reform bill."

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The Oregon Association of Nurseries, based in Wilsonville, represents more than 1,600 wholesale growers, retailers, landscapers and suppliers. Oregon's ornamental horticulture industry is the state's largest agricultural commodity, with annual sales of more than $875 million. For information visit our web site at www.oan.org or call 503-682-5089.

posted by Dick Hughes

http://www.statesmanjournal.com/apps/pb ... 46/OPINION