Chamber supports immigration bills
SALT LAKE CITY- (Nov. 29, 2011) Smart immigration policy is critical to our national and state economies. The Salt Lake Chamber, Utah’s largest and longest-standing statewide business association, supports reform at the federal level that provides business with the workforce to compete in the global marketplace of the 21st century.
Senator Mike Lee’s proposed legislation, S. 1697, Dairy and Sheep H-2A Act (DASH Act), will provide additional flexibility for H-2A nonimmigrants employed as sheepherders, goat herders or dairy farmers. This legislation makes it possible for our agricultural industry to hire the workers to produce commodities Americans consume.
Likewise, Congressman Jason Chaffetz’s proposed legislation, H.R. 3012, the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act, addresses a problem that has hampered our economic growth for far too long. This legislation eliminates the per-country numerical limitation for employment-based immigrants. It will benefit business by allowing greater access to qualified, highly skilled labor.
Congress should seize every opportunity to provide American businesses an advantage in the world economy. To enhance our economic strength, businesses require a world-class workforce that includes the best minds from around the world to fill and create highly skilled jobs, and the hardest workers to fill the hourly jobs. Senator Lee and Congressman Chaffetz’s proposals represent an important step in the right direction.
By acknowledging the vital role immigrants play in our economy and reaffirming our global reputation as a welcoming and business friendly state, these bills are consistent with The Utah Compact. We continue to encourage Utah’s federal delegation to advance comprehensive reform that adheres to the principles of The Utah Compact.
About the Chamber
The Salt Lake Chamber is Utah’s largest business association and Utah’s business leader. A statewide chamber of commerce with members in all 29 Utah counties, the Chamber represents 7,700 businesses and approximately 500,000 Utah jobs—nearly half the workforce of our state. With roots that date back to 1887, the Chamber has stood as the voice of business, supporting its members’ success and championing community prosperity for over a century.
The Salt Lake Chamber is Utah’s largest business association and Utah’s business leader. A statewide chamber of commerce with members in all 29 Utah counties, the Chamber represents 7,700 businesses and approximately 500,000 Utah jobs—nearly half the workforce of our state. With roots that date back to 1887, the Chamber has stood as the voice of business, supporting its members’ success and championing community prosperity for over a century.
Follow Us