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Tension high in public hearing on new immigration category
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Posted on Jun 13 2008
In a tense hearing at the Commonwealth House Chamber Thursday night, foreign workers and local residents on opposite sides of a controversial immigration bill presented their competing cases to lawmakers.
The legislation, H.B. 16-86, proposes to create a new type of entry permit that would give long-term foreign workers added flexibility.
Proponents of the bill say it could lay the groundwork for the eventual federalization of the Commonwealth’s immigration system and prevent worker abuses. Many business leaders and local residents, however, oppose the legislation, saying the added concessions to foreign workers are unwarranted and – among other reasons — could result in a deluge of immigrants on the island.
Furthermore, many opponents also view the bill as unnecessary given the pending federalization the Commonwealth’s immigration system.
“16-86 is too little too late,” said local businessman Alex Sablan, adding the coming federalization will impose strict controls on the number of foreign workers on Saipan regardless of any local legislation. “Going forward with this bill is a waste time.”
In contrast, supporters of the bill suggested it would prove useful as a starting point for federal officials to craft new immigration rules for the Commonwealth.
“It’s important to have a system in place before the feds come here,” said Saipan resident Ruth Tigh. “Putting this bill into effect will give the feds a picture of what could be done.” [B][I](Stefan Sebastian)
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