Partnering Organizations

San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce

Background

Since September 11, 2001, there has been much debate in Washington, D.C. about the need for reforming U.S. immigration laws and enforcement.  A variety of efforts, mainly focused on enhanced security, have already moved forward such as U.S. VISIT, mandated machine readable passports, and tighter visa controls.   Currently, key lawmakers in Washington are beginning to look at the issue of illegal immigration from Mexico.  Estimates are that as many as 12 million Mexican nationals currently live and work in the United States without proper documentation.  The result is both a security risk to the U.S. and for the undocumented workers themselves who are forced to live in the informal economy. 

The reality is that the South Texas economy and the economies of most border states are dependent upon labor from Mexico.  Industries such as agriculture, tourism, and construction are all heavily dependent on this labor source.  In turn, this labor force has a direct impact on the banking, housing, and retail sectors of the border region.  Any immigration reform that does not balance this economic reality with the security concerns could have disastrous affects on the border region’s economy.

Overview of Task Force

Recognizing the potential impact any immigration reform legislation could have on the San Antonio and South Texas economy, the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Free Trade Alliance have formed a task force to examine the issue.  The task force does not advocate a specific piece of legislation or reform proposal.  Instead, the task force provides key lawmakers and policymakers with a resource group for the development of new ideas and refinement of existing proposals. 

The task force is comprised of various representatives from a cross section of the aforementioned industries most affected by immigration as well as leading experts on immigration law. 

Task Force Goals

• Monitor immigration reform proposals and examine their potential impact on the San Antonio and South Texas economies
• Provide input on specific weaknesses, problems and challenges with existing immigration laws and policies that can/should be addressed in current reform efforts
• Provide feedback to lawmakers and policymakers on specific reform proposals, particularly as it relates to any economic impact

Chair: Robbie Greenblum, Greenblum Consulting

Alliance Staff Contact: Kathryn Dinnin, kdinnin@freetradealliance.org

Migration Information Source Article

Americas Voice Poll Study