Election hastens urgency for immigration reform, Chamber panelists say

"For us, it's not a cause for concern as you might hear about in the national debate," he said. "We consider it a strength."

The Utah Compact

Friday was the second anniversary of the signing of the Utah Compact, a declaration of five principles intended to guide the state's conversation about immigration: federal solutions, law enforcement, families, economy and a free society.

Lane Beattie, president and chief executive officer of the Salt Lake Chamber, said he believes the document was a game changer in Utah's policymaking.

"Fourteen different states literally took the Utah Compact and adopted its principles," Beattie said. 

"What an incredible experience it's been to be involved in something that has made such a substantial difference not only in Utah, but throughout the United States," he said.

Given the high stakes for the economy, families and human potential, the Salt Lake Chamber considers immigration reform a top priority.

"I want you to know the Salt Lake Chamber will never back down from these issues," Beattie said. "Never."

Robbins said Utah has been in a national leader with its principled approach in calling for immigration reform.

"You want to continue what you're doing (but) louder," he said.

E-mail: marjorie@desnews.com