Speech #1040226930

The participating companies together employ about 56.000 workers at 48 sites in 10 States. Participation by these employers ensures that about 80 percent of the meatpacking industry will be covered. I also commend the INS for their response to an issue of utmost importance to the countryprotecting American jobs and continuing efforts to reduce the primary incentive for illegal immigrationthe job magnet. I also want to laud the INS for recognizing the usefulness of a voluntary system. By participating with employers in fashioning the program. the INS has forged a partnership that will lead to success. The process is simple. Employers who volunteer to participate can quickly verify with INS. through a computer. whether their newly hired. noncitizen employees are authorized to work. In most cases. verification will be received in minutes. Through quick verification. this project cracks down on illegal employment while protecting the rights of legal immigrant workers. I believe this pilot project has the potential to restore Americans faith in the legal immigration system and I look forward to the evaluation of the program after it has gotten off the ground. I also look forward to continue working with INS and employers to ensure that Americans jobs are protected and available for those who are in the United States legally.e