Texas Senate Bill SB1336

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Commission on Immigration and Migration and a migrant worker visa pilot project.

Impact

Under this bill, Texas businesses may have increased access to legal foreign migrant workers through the establishment of nonimmigrant visa pathways. The commission is charged with studying the current immigration systems and making recommendations regarding necessary legislative amendments that would support the employment of migrant labor, thereby potentially improving labor shortages in specific industries and advancing economic development. By creating a collaborative framework, it also seeks to mitigate challenges posed by existing immigration laws.

Summary

SB1336 establishes the Texas Commission on Immigration and Migration, focused on addressing the state's immigration challenges and facilitating the employment of migrant workers through a visa pilot project. This act aims to create a structured response to migration issues in Texas by engaging public and private stakeholders, including the Mexican government. The commission will be composed of 26 members, including various state leaders and appointed public members, tasked with overseeing the pilot project and providing recommendations to enhance labor availability in Texas.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1336 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among business sectors concerned about labor shortages. Advocates of the bill argue that addressing immigration more effectively can bolster the economy by ensuring businesses can hire the temporary labor they require. However, there may also be contention among critics who express concerns about immigration policy, particularly in how such a pilot project aligns with federal regulations and the broader implications for immigration control.

Contention

Key points of contention could arise regarding the operational details of the pilot project, such as how worker qualifications are verified and the conditions surrounding the temporary work visas. Potential challenges also include balancing the needs of local labor markets with the influx of migrant workers and ensuring that the rights of both Texas businesses and migrant workers are protected. Additionally, the advisory committee’s role in studying the broader impacts of immigration policy may generate debate, especially in contexts where economic needs conflict with public sentiment around immigration.