While still not perfect, industry associations were quick to voice their support for the bipartisan measure known as “The Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013,” (S 744) that passed in the Senate on Thursday. The legislation would establish a national employment verification system — known as E-Verify — that would help to prevent identity theft and curtail the hiring of illegal workers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there are about 1.4 illegal immigrants work in the U.S. foodservice industry, which employs more than 13 million workers. “We are pleased that an immigration bill passed the Senate today with bipartisan support,” said Steve Caldeira, president and chief executive of the International Franchise Association. “The [Act] works to address many of the current and future labor needs of our businesses while offering opportunity to improve upon the bill in some key areas, such as a better E-Verify program and strengthened w-visa language, in a conference committee.” Rob Green, executive director of the National Council of Chain Restaurants, commended the Senate for passing the legislation. “NCCR will continue to work to ensure that important improvements are made to the bill as the legislative process continues,” he said. “In particular, NCCR and our members have reservations about specific elements of the employment verification framework adopted by the Senate. We will continue to work with our members and coalition partners to ensure that the bill is furthered strengthened in the U.S. House of Representatives.” The National Restaurant Association (NRA) and others have been involved in the development and review of the immigration bill, and still report some reservations about the bill language including the need for stronger E-Verify restrictions that would provide more protection to employers in the hiring process... Continued Here
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