Demand Immigration Reform

I usually feel mutual about Governor Heineman and the decisions he makes. On the issue of immigration, I feel like he is one of the few lawmakers listening to Nebraskans. There are many great benefits available to the residents of Nebraska, but so few experience these benefits because they’re being horded by “non-legal” residents. Governor Heineman introduced LB 963, which would prohibit state agencies and political subdivisions from providing federal, state, or local public benefits to individuals in the United States illegally. The proposed bill would also require all state agencies and political subdivisions to verify lawful status of individuals applying for benefits. However, the bill would not apply to benefits defined under federal law, emergency medical benefits, short-term emergency disaster relief, public health assistance for prevention and treatment of communicable diseases, and programs, services, or assistance necessary for the protection of life and safety. Lastly, and most importantly, LB 963 would disqualify the children of illegal immigrant’s access to college education at in-state tuition rates. Since in-state tuition benefits began, twenty-eight students have taken advantage of it. I must applaud Governor Heineman and Senator Mike Friend for looking out for Nebraska taxpayers. Why should the benefits our tax’s pay for go to illegal residents, instead of benefiting hardworking, deserving Nebraskan’s? Unfortunately, the Legislatures Judiciary Committee listened to the minority of Nebraskan’s (30-40%) and denied the Governors bill from being heard by the entire legislature. We must let our law makers know that we are disgusted and dismayed by the actions of the judiciary committee. We must demand that action be taken to contain the plague of illegal immigration in Nebraska and stop the leeching-off of our taxpayers. For other Nebraskan’s yearning for immigration reform, LB 784, passed by Senator Gwen Howard, was released from committee and into the full legislature. The proposed bill would require all businesses applying for state business tax incentives to certify they have not violated immigration law by knowingly employing undocumented immigrants. All businesses receiving incentives that are caught hiring illegal aliens would be ineligible for future incentives and would repay for those already received. This bill protects employers and employees who follow immigration rules and rewards them with tax and other incentives; whereas businesses in violation of immigration laws are severely punished.The above mentioned bills are what Nebraska needs. The people of Nebraska work too hard to make a living to have it stolen right out from under them, as our lawmakers stand by and let it happen! Illegal immigration will only be controlled if we contact our lawmakers and hold them accountable. Federal reform is very drastically needed, but starting on the state level will pave that way.