Americans For Tax Reform president Grover Norquist put out a statement on Wednesday praising he Senate’s new immigration proposal, saying it would add “trillions of dollars” to the economy through increased growth.
The full statement:
“The Senate proposal takes serious steps to fix our immigration problem that are rooted in conservative principles. The bill provides a tough but fair path to citizenship for those who are here and willing to work and support themselves. And it facilitates more legal immigration, which will enhance our labor markets and spur economic growth.
“Conservative economists, taking into account both the costs and benefits of reform, predict trillions of dollars in economic growth. The dynamic effects of immigration reform are very important: This bill will increase the size of our American workforce, as well as its productivity. Much needed highly skilled talent will start businesses and create jobs in the United States, rather than receiving an American degree and returning home to compete with us. And temporary and seasonal workers will fill jobs that remain vacant, strengthening and enlarging the American workforce.
“To be sure, this legislation is not perfect. Our economy needs a more robust guest worker program to ensure a vibrant labor supply and discourage future illegal immigration. But it is a solid proposal worthy of conservative support. People are an asset, not a liability. It is time our immigration system reflects that fact, and we allow more workers to pursue the American Dream.”
