Getting Real On Immigration
Is the U.S. in need of immigration reform? Of course. There are some 11 million immigrants in the nation illegally, legal immigration channels are clogged, and our border security is porous. That’s not good for our economy or our national security.
However, some conservatives would like to take on the issue as a pure border security matter, ignoring all other factors, looking to build a big wall around the country. True conservative reform on immigration would deal with the reality of the situation.
That means recognizing the economics of immigration. We are fortunate to have an economy that grows far more robustly than most other developed nations. U.S. businesses and consumers create demand for more workers than can be filled by the native born and those entering the nation through legal immigration avenues. Individuals from other nations see the tremendous economic opportunities available in the U.S., and find ways to take advantage of those opportunities, often risking their lives to do so. It is straightforward economics about labor demand and labor supply.
If immigration reform ignores these economic realities, then reform will accomplish nothing of substance.
Then there are the 11 million or more undocumented workers in the nation already. Some in the anti-immigration crowd simply declare that these people are in the nation illegally, and must leave. Do we really want, or can we actually enforce, a draconian police state that implements such a massive, forced migration? Do we really want such government action given that most of these people work hard, contribute to our economy, and are simply seeking a better life?
Some ask, though: But these people are here illegally, and something must be done about breaking the law, or we’ll lose respect for the rule of law? But isn’t the real problem a set of immigration laws that completely ignores the reality of the situation? It’s about bad law. The laws need to be changed and improved.
The answer is a straightforward four-step reform.
First, for those already in the nation illegally, establish a path to citizenship for those who have worked and contributed to society, stayed out of trouble, and have or are willing to learn English, while also paying some kind of fine and back taxes.
Second, expand the levels and opportunities for legal immigration into the country. An obvious answer to those who are simply seeking a better life but entering the nation illegally is to make it easier for them to enter the nation legally, with appropriate security checks.
Third, with expanded legal avenues for immigration, resources can be used far more efficiently in concentrating on those trying to enter the country who are true national security risks.
Finally, placing additional burdens and punitive measures on U.S. businesses is not the solution. Small business owners have enough costs and burdens hoisted on their backs without asking them to be immigration police. That’s the government’s job.
Reality-based immigration reform takes economics into account, as well as the practicality of executing reform proposals. The four-step program outlined above accomplishes both.
Raymond J. Keating is chief economist for the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council.
