Texas House Bill HCR88

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/8/11
• Refer: 3/15/11
• Report Pass: 4/19/11

Caption

Urging Congress to enact an overhaul of the immigration system to promote economic prosperity and national security.

Impact

The resolution suggests that a revamped immigration system can significantly benefit the U.S. economy. Citing studies from the Cato Institute and the Center for American Progress, it claims that such an overhaul could increase productivity among immigrant workers and add as much as $180 billion annually to the economy. By simplifying and modernizing immigration channels, the resolution aims to enhance labor mobility, which is vital for businesses to compete globally, particularly in sectors requiring large numbers of physical labor workers.

Summary

HCR88 is a House Concurrent Resolution urging Congress to enact a comprehensive overhaul of the United States immigration system. The resolution highlights the inefficiencies and flaws in the current immigration policies, which have not seen significant reform since the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Proponents of the resolution argue that the current system is rigid and burdensome, leading to illegal immigration and exploitation of undocumented workers, while also failing to adequately serve national security interests.

Contention

Notably, HCR88 emphasizes that a true 21st-century immigration framework must include both smart enforcement of borders and flexible legal immigration channels. It stresses the importance of creating reliable worker identification processes, disincentivizing violations of immigration laws, and rewarding lawful behavior from both employers and prospective immigrants. There may be opposition to certain provisions, particularly regarding the potential impact on current enforcement measures and the rights of undocumented workers, which could lead to ongoing debates about the balance between security and humanitarian concerns.