As a farmer I understand the need of having affordable labor when it is needed to help harvest our crops. As a Conservative Republican I understand the impact illegal immigration has on our community and the problems it can create. 18% of the criminals in the Kings County jail are illegal immigrants.
That is why the logical solution is to provide for an effective guest worker program that allows those who wish to work in our country to do so legally. They would apply for a permit, pass an instant background check, enter the Country legally, do their work and be able to return home to their families.
People who are here illegally would also need to apply for this permit. Those who fail to do so would be sent home.
I have spoken to a number of people who fall in this category and they have all told me they really like this approach. They do not like living in an underground society and they are forced to bring their families with them. Right now illegal immigration is a one way trip.
Not only will this provide for the labor we need to be competitive in a world market but it will also give these hard working people the opportunity to come and go safely. Nearly 500 people die each year trying to cross the border illegally. They are often mistreated by the "Coyotes" who they hire to bring them across.
With this program, the frequency of illegal crossing would be reduced substantially. This will free our Border Patrol to focus on the real threats of terrorism and drug runners.
A bill calling for this approach was introduced but was killed by the Democrats.