Immigration to the U.S.

Tweet

I'm not really clear on my take on the immigration laws in the U.S. On the one hand I believe that people should obey the laws and should have consequences when they don't. But on the other hand we need to change the laws to permit more people to come in to our country. I think part of the resistance to accepting immigrants is the fear of losing jobs to them. But must immigrants come with few professional skills. They usually, at least at first, take the menial jobs that most Americans are too proud or too lazy to work. And immigrants increase the job market at higher levels because they have the same wants and needs as other people - creating a demand for goods and services. There must be a better way to provide work visas that encourage people to come legally so that we don't have to be so rigid about people crossing the borders. Another part of the resistance is the cost of providing immigrants with all the social services benefits of U.S. citizens. While on the one hand we have a moral obligation to help all people, the reality is that we can't afford to support everyone's medical and health care if everyone doesn't pay into it. But if they are paying taxes that support the programs, they should be allowed to participate in the benefits. I understand the issue is more complex than this. But surely something can be worked out that is fair and equitable that allows more people to come into our country to share their lives with us.