FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 15, 2007

Contact: Rebekah Orr 503-986-1904 

Democrats Press Ahead on Common-Sense Immigration Reform

Bill that penalizes employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants clears House

Salem—The Oregon House today, successfully enacted one of a string Democrat-backed common-sense immigration reforms proposed this session. Under House Bill 3514, employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants will, if convicted of the crime, be forced to pay stiff financial penalties.

"This bill goes after a major contributing factor to the illegal immigration problem—unscrupulous employers," said State Representative Brian Clem (D-Salem). "Just this week, subcontractors of Fresh Del Monte were alleged to have knowingly employed hundreds of undocumented workers. It was a story that made national news and made even clearer why we must take on this issue—and do it now."

Proponents of the bill say it is needed because the federal government has failed to adequately address real immigration reform and address the problems facing states as a result of illegal immigration.  Backers say the employment climate in Oregon, particularly in the agricultural, construction and service industries, is attractive to undocumented workers, particularly those who are promised jobs from U.S. employers before they even cross the border.

"Companies who break the law and contribute to Oregon's illegal immigration problem shouldn't be able to reap the financial benefits of cheap, illegal labor and corporate tax deductions on the backs of Oregon taxpayers," said State Representative Chris Edwards (D-Eugene) .

The bill as approved by the House prohibits Oregon businesses from claiming a tax deduction on state tax returns for wages paid to undocumented workers. If a company is found to have done so and is convicted of that crime, it will be required to amend its state tax returns and pay back to the state any taxes and penalties due as a result.  

"If we do not hold employers to proper standards, we invite them to pay below market wages; to cheat on their payroll and other, related taxes; and more generally, to commit even greater crimes under the pretext of commerce," said State Representative David Edwards (D-Hillsboro). "A respect for the principles of a free and fair market demands real consequences for employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers."

The bill now moves to the Oregon Senate for approval.

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