(SIOUX CITY, IA) - A bill could be welcome news for millions working in the shadows in the United States. The so-called "Gang of 8" said the timing is right to reform immigration laws. Siouxland News talked to Latinos in Siouxland to get their thoughts.
"For me, it's a big opportunity for the people, for the country, good for the economy, it's wonderful," said Martha Padilla.
The immigration plan has four pillars:
1) A "tough but fair" path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants already living in the U.S. (after tightening the nation's border security).
It's going to be hard, but with all the efforts, we will achieve it, said Padilla.
Erica DeLeon is the executive director of the Mary J. Treglia Community House. Her agency works with the Latino community on a regular basis and she said she has some concerns.
"There might be somebody who's undocumented right now and this is a great plan for them, but what if in five years they marry a U.S. citizen and then that process can be done in a year or maybe a little bit longer than a year? Are they able to switch over to that process and still not have to leave the country or would they still have to go through the existing process that requires them to leave?" said DeLeon.
2) Overhauling America's legal immigration system, specifically attaching Green Cards to Advanced Degrees in science, math, technology, and engineering at U.S. universities.
However, immigrants who are interested in other careers hope that gets expanded. Julio Mate wants to be a musician.
"Regardless of where life takes me I'm going to stick by who I am and even if there's a green card attached to that or not, I'm not going to take it and just settle," said Mate.
3) Establishing an employment verification system that holds employers accountable for hiring *undocumented* workers.
"It'll be tougher, but whatever they come up with as least hopefully it'll be something that is feasible for employers of all sizes."
4) Creating a guest worker program for positions that Americans are unable or unwilling to fill.
"It should be just straight you get hired based on your credentials not on the color of your skin or who you're going to touch. That kind of stuff. I just think it's time that we begin to treat everyone like equals."
In general, all three agree the plan has a good foundation, but legislators need to hash out the details. DeLeon said she's surprised the "Gang of 8" was able to reach a consensus, but that reform legislation is necessary for the clients she works with on a daily basis.
