THE IMMIGRATION QUESTION?

My, my, the immigration question has really heated up lately. The politicians (all of them) are really confused as to what to do. They are divided because their constituency is divided.

Some call for amnesty, others want them outa here. We are talking about 14 million people so it is not just a silly little matter.

Here, in Michigan, most of the landscaping and lawn maintenance work is performed by Mexicans. For that matter, many construction jobs are also performed by Mexicans. Fruit growers in the North could not survive without Mexican labor.

Many of those workers are seasonal, spending the winter in Mexico and coming up here in the spring. Are they legal – I dunno. Should they be – probably?

The 14 million we are talking about are not seasonal; they are here to stay.

Let us look at some facts here. First and foremost, they are illegal so they do not pay taxes. I’m not saying they make a lot of money so would pay a lot in taxes, but 14 million people could account for some sizable tax money.

They do not pay taxes but probably use our services like police, fire, health, etc. They use those services for free or at our expense.

So from just the tax side, it would be beneficial for all of us if they became registered citizens.

So what are the issues that so divide this country.

The business sector says, let them stay. Many businesses rely on Mexican labor. Make them become citizens and that is that.

Others say, they are illegal, make them leave and come in legally – fat chance.

Senators McCain and Kennedy say they should all pay a fine for never paying taxes, learn English and become citizens.

Still others say, give them all amnesty and let them stay legally.

Reality tells us that 14 million people would never be rounded up and deported, not in 100 years.

We all agree that it would be better if they were registered and enrolled in citizen training. To do that, they must be found or they must be made to register. How do we do that?

One proposed law would punish heavily, employers of illegals. To work legally in this country one needs to have proof of citizenship or a Green Card. If really enforced, it could do the job.

Am I suggesting a NATIONAL ID CARD? Wow, that’s so like Big Brother it is downright scary but hey, got a better idea?

Our borders are a joke, read sieve. Should they be tightened – absolutely! Build a wall? Maybe or come up with a better idea.

Once no more are coming in illegally make the illegals already here legal by registering them.

Sounds simple – let us see what happens in the coming weeks.


Janusz