Immigration Discussion Continues; Recommendations on the Horizon

The fifth meeting of the Senate Select Committee on Immigration Issues was recently held. Topics discussed included Indiana demographics, provided by a representative of the Partnership for a New American Economy. The chairman of the 6th congressional district Latino caucus also provided the committee with information about the struggles of Hoosier Latinos in Union City. He further testified to the use of and success of a voluntary emergency ID program for undocumented immigrants in his community. He suggested the idea could possibly be mirrored by the state.

Senator Chip Perfect (R-Lawrenceburg) discussed the quandary for employers that would be presented with an ID/driver’s license that could be used for purposes of the I-9 for hiring but on that document specifically identifies that the person is undocumented. Social work students from Valparaiso University testified to the need to allow for undocumented immigrants to have access to higher education. Senator Mike Delph (R-Carmel) asked committee members to provide thoughts for recommendations to the General Assembly before the next and final meeting on November 10. At that time, we should get a feel for what Sen. Delph will be wanting to do in regards to potential upcoming legislation.

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