Guest worker program advances

SALT LAKE CITY -- A resolution asking the federal government for permission to establish a guest worker program in Utah received final legislative approval Thursday after it was amended to remove language regarding undocumented immigrants.

The original resolution from Sen. Scott Jenkins, R-Plain City, asks for permission to create a two-year, renewable program for guest workers, including undocumented immigrants already living in the state.

Jenkins, who co-chaired a legislative task force on illegal immigration last year, said the resolution is designed to spur the federal government into action on the issue.

Before passing it, the House amended the resolution to remove references to undocumented immigrants, and to add language to ensure that a guest worker program doesn't take job opportunities away from legal, local workers.

http://www.standard.net/live/news/163569