The Immigration Debate

Major Immigration Issues

There is widespread criticism of the current US immigration policy and it has become clear that changes need to be made. One of the principle reasons that there are so many illegal immigrants is before 1994 the debate was focused on what are known as illegal aliens by the INS. After 94 it was recognized that there was also a problem with immigration arriving in the country legally but continue to stay in the country after their visas had expired, these are now known as undocumented residents.

Some key arguments and problems with the current policy is:
Stricter border control has done nothing to lessen illegal immigration flows and led instead to human rights abuses and victimization of border-crossers. 

Due to immigrants working in the American economy there is downward pressure on on wage levels particularly in lower income sectors and also decreased job availability in certain areas. 

Refugees escaping difficult situations in their own country such as repressive governments and violent political situations get rejected by Washington. 

The integration of illegal immigrants into the US workforce is both negative and positive. Immigrants freely agree to take jobs that US citizens would reject. This in turn allows the US to be competitive in the world economy and stimulate job creation in run down neighborhoods. These benefits often conceal losses for vulnerable parts of the US population. American companies often prefer to hire a foreigner who works harder for less pay. 

There are concerns that the US is at a dangerous level of immigration at the present time and this could lead to population overload. At current levels immigration is increasing the population by 1.5 million people per year, which is more than half of total US population growth. If things were to continue at this level by 2050 the US population would be 400 million.
The above information is taken from US foreign policy in focus. (www.immigrationusa.com/debate.html)