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Businesses oppose Beaufort Count illegal immigration proposal

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. Several business groups in Beaufort County oppose an ordinance being considered by the County Council that would revoke the business license of any company that knowingly hires illegal aliens.

The groups, which include construction firms, restaurants and hotels, say the ordinance is unconstitutional and could cause legal businesses to close.

County Council will have a final vote on the proposal Monday.

The councilwoman who proposed the ordinance two months ago doesn't expect the letter to sway the council.

Starletta Hairston says she can't understand why businesses are opposed to the measure because it will help companies that operate fairly compete with people who hire undocumented workers.

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