Urging the United States Congress to increase the penalties for violations of federal immigration laws and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement to prosecute employers who hire undocumented immigrants.
If passed, the resolution aims to influence federal immigration policy by advocating for harsher penalties against those who violate immigration laws. This could lead to an increase in criminal prosecutions of employers and a significant impact on hiring practices across various industries. The resolution points out that despite ICE having prosecutorial authority since 1986, enforcement has been minimal, with very few legal actions taken against violators. SCR1614 calls for the doubling of fines associated with immigration violations, potentially changing the risk-reward calculus for companies that currently employ undocumented labor.
SCR1614 urges the United States Congress to increase penalties for violations of federal immigration laws and calls on the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to prosecute employers who hire undocumented immigrants. The bill highlights the substantial presence of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. labor force, estimated between 4.4% and 5.4%. It posits that by hiring undocumented individuals, employers not only take jobs away from American citizens but also contribute to a suppression of wages, making it difficult for American workers to earn livable wages.
Notably, the resolution raises questions about the balance between enforcement and the economic dependence on undocumented labor within certain sectors. Advocates for the resolution argue that tougher penalties will help to discourage illegal hiring practices and promote fair wages for all workers. Conversely, opponents may argue that the bill could lead to increased hardships for industries reliant on undocumented workers and might not effectively address the complexities of immigration and labor issues. Overall, this resolution reflects ongoing tensions in the national conversation regarding immigration policy, labor rights, and the responsibilities of employers.