Speech #530132215

Mr. Chairman. I simply do not believe that the effect of this amendment will lead to anything but exploitation of guest workers and another massive influx of undocumented aliens. If a grower is not held personally responsible for the working conditions and the timely return to their native countries of an identifiable group of guest workers. there really is no way to prevent worker exploitation and illegal immigration. The gentleman says that economic incentives will lure guest workers back to their native countries. The economic incentives are reimbursement of salary deductions equivalent to FICA taxes. and the possibility of exclusion from participating in the program for several years if the guest workers return to his native country is not timely. I submit to those of us who really desire to stem the tide of illegal immigration that these incentives are minimal at best. The real incentive to economic gain is remaining in the United States. Once here. it is likely that many guest workers will realize how much more there is to gain by staying here. even it if means forfeiting the recoupment of those salary deductions and future participation in the program. Even with employer sanctions. many of these guest workers will blend into the mainstream and find employment. In this respect. I do not see how this amendment can contribute to a sound and humane policy to reduce illegal immigration. And while I respect the earnestness of my colleague from California. I must urge our colleagues to join me in opposing his amendment.