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Sweeping migrant bill rushed to hearing
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Liberty Jane | 2:20 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
This is not to be believed. A lawmaker cannot be serious when he says that his
law wouldn't be interpreted so broadly in regards to transporting people?
Yes...under his bill, bus drivers would ask any foreign looking person for their
documents. Taxi drivers the same. Transporting people to church...that, too.
There are other bills that have already been heard on committee and have gone on
to the House that his bill duplicates. Could this lawmaker have ommitted what
has already been proposed and try not to waste time/resources?
russ | 5:54 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Interesting that some states believe they have to enact immigration legislation
when it is obviously a federal issue. Eventually, fed. law will supercede the
states. But the people can't wait. Can't really blame them. A good
example of the people being ahead of their "leaders."
Linda D. | 6:28 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I want this passed now, in it's totality.
Comments continue below
U.S. Army | 6:28 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
One of the defining moments in my life was the oath of alligence I took to
defend this country from foriegn invaiders. I still take that promise seriously!
Any American that does not support total immigration reform and deportation of
foriegn invaiders has forgotten what every dead American serviceman died for.
We must control our borders and deport illegal aliens.
Rich | 8:06 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Arizona's apartment owners are facing high vacancy rates right now because
Arizona law now mandates that employers are punished for hiring undocumented
workers. They are fined on the first violation and stripped of their business
licenses on the second violation. Where are the workers going? Utah, no doubt.
And they'll keep coming until Utah passes a law that is at least as tough
as Arizona's.
Anonymous | 8:21 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
This would totally solve the education funding issue. Imagine our schools with
the same funding available now but with thousands of students no longer there.
We might actually get the teachers a decent wage and less crowded classrooms.
Farl Miller | 8:23 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
If this type of law had been on the books years ago most of us wouldn't be
here. JUST GIVE THESE PEOPLE an electronic card with an ID # when they cross the
boarder at all check points that would register them in the system so they can
work and pay taxes etc..You would think that a country as great as ours could
figure out a way to do that,
Grandma Jean | 9:10 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Unfortunately, innocent people are always hurt when others do not obey the law.
We are studying this issue to death. It's time to actually do something. I
applaud this move as a way to start working on this issue. No matter how you cut
it, illegal immigrants are not obeying the law of the land.
Too much money and time are spent in this country taking care of those who do not carry their own weight and not enough of those are given to the 90% or so that follow the laws of the land. In the past, immigrants needed a sponsor who was established, willing to help the immigrant find work, a place to live and teach him how to get along in our society. We need to stay with this policy. One can't help but feel empathy for families who will be broken through new legislation. However, there are consequences to all of our actions and oftentimes they affect those we love. Let's get this law on the books start working on the problem
Too much money and time are spent in this country taking care of those who do not carry their own weight and not enough of those are given to the 90% or so that follow the laws of the land. In the past, immigrants needed a sponsor who was established, willing to help the immigrant find work, a place to live and teach him how to get along in our society. We need to stay with this policy. One can't help but feel empathy for families who will be broken through new legislation. However, there are consequences to all of our actions and oftentimes they affect those we love. Let's get this law on the books start working on the problem
Guillermo | 9:18 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Why punish the children of undocumented parents and condemn them to a life of
poverty. Did these children convince their parents when they were infants to
come to this country in pursuit of a better life? Can they be held accountable
for their parents wrong doings?
I believe that is what both the Catholic and LDS church were touching on when they asked our lawmakers to show compassion.
I understand that a legal immigration reform is needed, but why punish the children by not letting them earn an education.
I believe that is what both the Catholic and LDS church were touching on when they asked our lawmakers to show compassion.
I understand that a legal immigration reform is needed, but why punish the children by not letting them earn an education.
Annabel G. | 9:25 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I am so disheartened when I hear people suggest we just give these guys an ID. I
have been here legally for 11 years and for all of that time have been waiting
to get a legal status for my handicapped son. Do you know how much it hurts
those of us who try to do the right thing when you reward those who break the
law?
DD | 9:34 a.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Immigration policy is a Federal Issue. Unforunately the State of Utah has taken
upon itself to override Federal law and give in-state tuition to illegal aliens,
and give driving privilege cards to illegal aliens.
You cannot use the Federalism argument to justify not enforcing immigration laws against illegals if you support giving them benefits specifically barred by Federal law.
You cannot use the Federalism argument to justify not enforcing immigration laws against illegals if you support giving them benefits specifically barred by Federal law.
Immigrants aren't human | 12:36 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I'm being sarcastic. But so many folks here want to ignore reality and
magically send everyone home. Problem is, these immigrants are here and truth be
told - a lot of them are a lot more productive than "legal" Americans.
There needs to be a way to citizenship for those deserving it. The immigration bill last year was the best hope in a long time and it got struck down by "Christian" conservatives.
There needs to be a way to citizenship for those deserving it. The immigration bill last year was the best hope in a long time and it got struck down by "Christian" conservatives.
Guardian | 1:22 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I wish the bill would require ALL employers to use the free federal E-Verify
program, not just public employers. I feel that those employers who object to
this simply do not want to know if potential employees are illegal and prefer
the status quo.
Much is said about law-breaking illegal aliens, but I think we must not forget about our greedy and law-breaking employers and a government long derelict in its duty to enforce laws already on the books.
I hope we are able to pass an employer sanctions law with some real teeth in it.
Much is said about law-breaking illegal aliens, but I think we must not forget about our greedy and law-breaking employers and a government long derelict in its duty to enforce laws already on the books.
I hope we are able to pass an employer sanctions law with some real teeth in it.
anonymous | 1:52 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I've wanted to keep my mouth shut about these immigrations bills, but feel
I can't any longer. We have Greg Curtis wanting to house the illegal
aliens in a jail until we can deport them...didn't we do something like
that during World War II with the Japanese? Did we not learn from this mistake
as to how many people we hurt then?
We seemed to have become a state where all we need to do is punish people who are different. Donaldson, have you not learn to love thy neighbor or are you just taking out your problems on punishing a group of people who do the work that you wouldn't do yourself.
I'm appauled at your attitude to these people! How would you like to be in their shoes and have someone like you making such hateful laws? Do you sleep well at nights?
We seemed to have become a state where all we need to do is punish people who are different. Donaldson, have you not learn to love thy neighbor or are you just taking out your problems on punishing a group of people who do the work that you wouldn't do yourself.
I'm appauled at your attitude to these people! How would you like to be in their shoes and have someone like you making such hateful laws? Do you sleep well at nights?
US ARMY CLOWN | 2:38 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
U.S. Army comment had to have been made by a clown. Don't try to take
something as special as the oath of allegiance and twist it into something it
isn't. You know very well that the way you are twisting it has zero to do
with the original context of the oath. Spare us all your attempt at tear
jerking. Say what you want about immigration, it's illegal, but not they
way you are trying to make it.
Leigh H. | 4:28 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Why is it that legal aliens in the U.S. are threatened by American attemps to
close our borders? We are tring to keep American safe and secure. I think they
are tring to bring in as many illegals as they can. To the person who commented
negativly to the U.S. soldier: SHAME ON YOU.
NCImmgrationProtester | 6:01 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
I think many people are overlooking the key points of all of this. Anyone here
who doesn't think that Americans are HURT by illegal immigration is sadly
mistaken. Look at the declining job market, not to mention the drastically
reduced wages most are seeing now. If you honestly don't think that the
illegals have something to do with this, then you are living in a fantasy world.
Next, let's look at the rapid increase in healthcare costs and the housing
bust occurring now: If the illegals were not allowed to get anything BUT
emergency services, many ER's would not be bankrupting the hospitals they
are attached to. Then how about our overcrowded schools? Imagine lessening the
American population by some 33 million people plus or minus and yet keeping the
same tax base. Removing so many workers would also serve as a stimulus to
promote reasonable job wages to emerge again, allowing America to be competitive
financially. Instead of 1000% profits and third-world living conditions, people
might see 50-75% profit margins and pay their people enough to be able to live.
This isn't happening, and the illegals are allowing ruthless employers to
circumvent workers' rights and the law.
Reality Check | 8:27 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
Earth to NC Immigration Protester: Please get your facts straight before
putting finger to keyboard. Governor Huntsman tells me over and over again that
Utah is the envy of the nation, with great wages and full employment. So where
are the workers going to come from when you deport 15% of our population? And
who will be paying that $25 an hour to teenage slackers and prisoners to build
your houses and pick your fruit? It will be me and my small business,
that's who. Or better said, it won't be me, as I will be out of
business and on the government dole. Something else too: healthcare and
educational costs are skyrocketing because of out-of-control lawsuits, and our
socialist-styled insurance and educational system. And what on earth does our
housing crisis have to do with illegal immigration? I suppose illegals are
responsible for the hurricanes and global warming also. Say, why don't you
deport yourself, NC Immigration Protester, and save us all a lot of time and
money.
Let em fight and join | 8:35 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
If the ILLEGALS want in, maybe it is time to do what was done in World War II.
Back then, a person could go into the military, serve the country and become a
US citizen afterwards. I know of several that this happened. to. Wonder how many
of these ILLEGALS would be lined up at the recuiting office in the morning, if
it was made legal tonight. Bet not very many.
Greg in Texas | 8:39 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
NC Immigration Protester asks me to "imagine" a country without 33
million illegal aliens. Here is what I imagine: a full-employment country
shutting down its construction, food service, agricultural and hospitality
industries, causing an economic catastrophe like we haven't seen since the
depression; I "imagine" seeing live TV video of screaming woman and
children being hunted down and shackled, like the Jews in the 1930's, and
shipped off to camps. I "imagine" a country being hated and
economically isolated throughout the world like South Africa during apartheid;
and worst of all I "imagine" the emergence of China as the only
superpower on earth, while the country I was born in, the country I love, slides
into historical odium and oblivion.
Dannile | 9:02 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
To the gentleman who wrote concerning illegal aliens in the armed forces: my
grandfather from Mexico came to the United States during World War II. He
volunteered, and fought in the South Pacific, and was wounded twice. He was
awarded the Purple Heart. Your statement offends me so deeply it makes me cry.
Have you ever looked at the casualty roles for the Iraq War, sir? Lots and lots
of Hispanic surnames there, every week. Not a whole lot of Utahns though. So
who are the real patriots?
Stewart | 9:06 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
"The sky is falling! The sky is falling!" What would we do if the
illegal aliens start to leave? Empty apartments, not enough workers for the
cheap labor employers, God punishes Utahns for not being compassionate with
those who sneaked into our country in disregard of our laws. This is what the
illegal immigration and open borders enablers and cheap labor employers are
crying. Or, if they leave perhaps wages would increase and people could make a
living again working at low skilled entry level jobs. Perhaps our taxes could
pay for the education and welfare of our own citizens rather than foreigners.
Just a thought.
primipilus | 9:22 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
During the glory years of the Roman Empire a non citizen earned the right to
become a roman by volunteering for the Roman legions for 25 years. If, after
his term of service he distinguihed himself with valor he was awarded
citizenship. Sounds good to me! Veni, Vidi, Vinci.
Kaern W. | 9:47 p.m. Feb. 4, 2008
To Liberty Jane (Fonda): I still have an image of you sighting in on American
Aircraft from a North Vietnamese anti-aircraft gun. It appears that you
political opinions have nt changed in the last 30 years.
Anti-Immigrant Bulkeley | 1:03 a.m. Feb. 5, 2008
Deborah Bulkeley is at it again with yet another article with a title
insinuating anti-immigrant sentiment.
Thank goodness for immigrants. If it weren't for immigrants I fear Ms. Bulkeley wouldn't have much more to talk about. I look forward to reading many more front page Deseret News anti-immigrant articles by Ms. Bulkeley who obviously has an axe to grind with immigrants and it appears she's not about to write an article that will put immigrants in a positive light. I'll come up with your next headline: "Utahns stand firm in their opposition to immigrants with brown skin. Let's welcome all Russian Orphans and Throw Them a Front Page Party."
Thank goodness for immigrants. If it weren't for immigrants I fear Ms. Bulkeley wouldn't have much more to talk about. I look forward to reading many more front page Deseret News anti-immigrant articles by Ms. Bulkeley who obviously has an axe to grind with immigrants and it appears she's not about to write an article that will put immigrants in a positive light. I'll come up with your next headline: "Utahns stand firm in their opposition to immigrants with brown skin. Let's welcome all Russian Orphans and Throw Them a Front Page Party."
Anonymous | 9:15 a.m. Feb. 5, 2008
To those throwing out the who will harvest your food:
We have migrant worker programs. The workers here legally are not in question. Many apply and receive green cards. They are here legally. This program could be easily expanded if needed.
I worked along side many of the migrant workers who are well paid. Yes, the work is hard. Yes, I would do it again.
My sons are not "slackers" like one post accused all teenagers of being. They and their responsible friends have a great deal of trouble finding jobs. They are not adults trying to support 3 families on one income. I asked an employer who refused to interview any teenagers... They don't "need" the job.
We have migrant worker programs. The workers here legally are not in question. Many apply and receive green cards. They are here legally. This program could be easily expanded if needed.
I worked along side many of the migrant workers who are well paid. Yes, the work is hard. Yes, I would do it again.
My sons are not "slackers" like one post accused all teenagers of being. They and their responsible friends have a great deal of trouble finding jobs. They are not adults trying to support 3 families on one income. I asked an employer who refused to interview any teenagers... They don't "need" the job.
Guillermo | 4:54 p.m. Feb. 6, 2008
re: Anonymous 9:15
think about that certain issue for just a second. If your an employer looking for someone to fill a position, you want someone dependable and hardworking.
Im not saying all teenagers are lazy but when you have to make a choice between a teenager and an adult, I think the choice is easy.
Between a first job, and a man looking to support his family, i believe one will work at the job just a little harder.
this employer you talk about is kind of biased but maybe because he knows which of the two will be a better employee in the long run.
think about that certain issue for just a second. If your an employer looking for someone to fill a position, you want someone dependable and hardworking.
Im not saying all teenagers are lazy but when you have to make a choice between a teenager and an adult, I think the choice is easy.
Between a first job, and a man looking to support his family, i believe one will work at the job just a little harder.
this employer you talk about is kind of biased but maybe because he knows which of the two will be a better employee in the long run.
Anonymous | 9:28 p.m. Feb. 6, 2008
In the long run...
Where will the next generation of US citizens get their experience. Teens used to start out working at 15 or 16 and work their way up (usually in the food chains). I am not willing to allow illegal immigrants to take from the future of our great nation. If more jobs were avaliable to first time workers, we would see more responsible teens.
Illegal immigrants need to go through ALL the steps every other immigrant is taking to become a citizen of the USA
Where will the next generation of US citizens get their experience. Teens used to start out working at 15 or 16 and work their way up (usually in the food chains). I am not willing to allow illegal immigrants to take from the future of our great nation. If more jobs were avaliable to first time workers, we would see more responsible teens.
Illegal immigrants need to go through ALL the steps every other immigrant is taking to become a citizen of the USA
Nearly speechless. | 6:02 p.m. Feb. 7, 2008
Some ofo the comments made here are ridiculous. One person suggests that if
someone wants to be a citizen, they join the military, to be fodder in a
pointless war, others call to arms for "lawbreakers" without
considering the benefits brought by immigration. One person suggests migrant
programs, but doesn't realize the abuses in this system.
The reasons Americans are bankrupt has little to do with immigrants. We spend too much, waste more, and are indifferent to others.
Sadly, racial discrimination and intollerance will apparently always be a part of U.S. culture and mindset.
To Annonymous who claimed immigrants take from future generations, look at the jobs America has left, and the state of education. And to Leigh H. No, Shame on you. The fact that he is a soldier does not give him free reign to be ignorant of the world around him. Blind patriotism is not someething to be proud of, and I see a lot of it.
It is time to wake up. Our government is robbing us blind and you're bickering over who gets the crumbs.
The reasons Americans are bankrupt has little to do with immigrants. We spend too much, waste more, and are indifferent to others.
Sadly, racial discrimination and intollerance will apparently always be a part of U.S. culture and mindset.
To Annonymous who claimed immigrants take from future generations, look at the jobs America has left, and the state of education. And to Leigh H. No, Shame on you. The fact that he is a soldier does not give him free reign to be ignorant of the world around him. Blind patriotism is not someething to be proud of, and I see a lot of it.
It is time to wake up. Our government is robbing us blind and you're bickering over who gets the crumbs.
One more thing... | 6:07 p.m. Feb. 7, 2008
To the person who claimed this would solve the education dilemma. Wouldn't
ending this ridiculous war achieve much more? And healthcare costs are the
issue, by the way. Not health insurance.
Anyone using "ILLEGALS" to refer to a people needs to review their position. It is not a crime to be in the US illegaly.
Anyone using "ILLEGALS" to refer to a people needs to review their position. It is not a crime to be in the US illegaly.
To: One more thing... | 2:37 p.m. Feb. 8, 2008
Health insurance goes up with the increased cost of health care. They are
related items.
Anyone who came to this country or is staying in the USA illegally IS an ILLEGAL ALIEN. It is a crime. Often a felony.
Anyone who came to this country or is staying in the USA illegally IS an ILLEGAL ALIEN. It is a crime. Often a felony.
In response | 9:34 a.m. Feb. 13, 2008
Health care costs are not going up because of illegal immigration. This may play
a role, but it is not the determining factor.
Have you considered the ethicallity of these laws? Or the resources wasted "rounding up" those who break them? Seriously consider for a minute similar events throughout history, not just in the US, but all over the world. These laws must be revised and reviewed, along with many others. It is sadly apparent that people do not wish to be responsible for their own government. The issue should not be immigration, but rising cost of living and financial burdens on the poor.
But by all means, continue blaming immigrants for the financial woes of this country. It has worked throughout history, right?
Have you considered the ethicallity of these laws? Or the resources wasted "rounding up" those who break them? Seriously consider for a minute similar events throughout history, not just in the US, but all over the world. These laws must be revised and reviewed, along with many others. It is sadly apparent that people do not wish to be responsible for their own government. The issue should not be immigration, but rising cost of living and financial burdens on the poor.
But by all means, continue blaming immigrants for the financial woes of this country. It has worked throughout history, right?
Mexican-American | 7:52 p.m. Feb. 27, 2008
Many people come to this country to work. There whole purpose is to work. Many
support themselves here and also support their families back in their native
country. An immigrant is the hardest working person you will ever see. Who else
works harder for minimum wage? Since minimum wage won't cover all living
expenses some may work two jobs. As for immigrants taking jobs, many big
companies go overseas to cut costs. Big companies have set up shop in China,
India, and Latin America. Has anyone ever heard of Maquiladoras? Google this
word to find out what it is. Does anyone remember what happened in Flint, MI? GM
CEO Roger Smith's decision to close the GM plant which was the backbone of
the town's economy. Companies will cut cost in order to be competitive in
the global market. Go to CIA.gov under quick links click wordl fact book compare
the gdp of the U.S. China and India. The euro is stronger than the dollar. As
for immigrants being criminals, every race has its bad apples. Everyone knows
someone who has done something that they weren't suppossed to do.
Anonymous | 12:37 p.m. Aug. 13, 2009
Sorry. It is nobler to declare oneself wrong than to insist on being right -
especially when one is right. Help me! I can not find sites on the: Retirement
planning services raleigh. I found only this - free Retirement planning. The
question isn at what age I want to retire, planning for retirement income can be
a challenging task. Can use resources to help you make informed financial
decisions about planning your retirement. Waiting for a reply :-), Neva from
England.
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