Speech #930291427

A compromise which would allow extensions for two or three years appears appropriate. The final area of concentration involves employer responsibility. If an employer has the opportunity to contract for alien labor. and if legal entrants are properly identified. it is reasonable and fair to expect the employer to uphold the law and not circumvent it. Those who hire illegal aliens would have no excuse. It is recommended that every employer in the United States be required to register his alien employees with the fiumigration and Naturalization Service. This would provide enforcement officials a means to check. Those employers who hire illegal aliens should be required to repay the costs of deportation. This is a procedure which is fair to all. assists the government. and strikes hardest against the main targetthe "sweat shops" in our metropolitan areas. One additional step should be taken to better control alien traffic. Many aliens along the border have been issued immigration visas based upon their intent to reside in the United States. However. they have become commuters who work In the U.S. but live across the border. This practice should be stopped. These aliens should be required. within a reasonable time. to establish and maintain a residence in the United States or forfeit their visas. An immediate benefit. once identification. contract labor. employer responsibility and overall better controls are in effect. will be the decrease in the welfare burden by the elimination of the ineligible recipient. Local officials will find it easier to crosscheck applicants with the Immigration and Naturalization Service and thereby uncover fraudulent requests from deportable aliens. This entire issue points up the fact that ours is still the land of opportunity and is so recognized worldwide. To perpetuate that reputation. it is time to strengthen the opportunities for those who would enter the United States legally and by cracking down on those who enter illegally and who undermine our system.