Capitol Ideas

By P. Graydon

February 9, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this

I am an Alabama resident, but I am a native Georgian. I have a continuing interest in what happens in Georgia. I hear and somewhat understand the arguments for allowing Latinos to work in this country. However, I can not understand why people defend illegal immigrants. They have broken the law by being in this oountry this way. Our borders must be made secure. If our neighbors to the south want to come to the United States, let them do it legally, not as criminals.

By def

February 9, 2006 11:37 AM | Link to this

Way to go Chip. It’s about time someone steps up to offer a solution to this on going drain of our community. If illegal immigrants won’t pay the taxes that support our local services, then they should not be allowed to use those services. That includes public school. If there is no incentive to be here, they won’t come here.

By lorios

February 9, 2006 11:45 AM | Link to this

The vast majority of illegal immigrants do pay taxes. The idea that they don’t is a myth perpetuated by ignorance.

By CS

February 9, 2006 11:45 AM | Link to this

We are facing an invasion, and no one wants to do anything about it. Allow our law enforcement and for that matter, private citizens, to defend the nation under the guidelines set by the Constitution for defense of the nation.

By CS

February 9, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this

Let’s start deporting them, and figure out a way to seriously defend the Mexican boarder to prohibit them from crossing. It’s a problem that no one wants to take seriously, and we are facing an invasion from a foreign nation, and no one wants to do anything about it.

By Dick

February 9, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this

Loris In our area of Georgia, the immigrants do not pay taxes, they only work if they are paid in cash. It is true, they pay sales tax on items other than groceries, etc but they sure don’t pay payroll taxes. All I know is when I go to a doctor,. before I am allowed to leave I have to pay the bill. What is fair for the goose is fair for the gander. Until the working people stand up to our politicians, the working class will always be shafted. I ahve already told my senators and reps, both state and federal not to even ask me for their votes next time unless they stop the abuse caused by immigrants who are in our country ILLEGALLY.

By Concerned

February 9, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this

Im riding down the road and come to a road block im in the center vehicle, we come to a road block set up by the police. One of my workers in the front car driving is from germany he shows his licences and moves on with a warning from the police saying update the licences, I show my Id and I move on, The rear car with my hispanic worker shows hes licences and is taken to jail and was told because he dont have united states licences. By the way neither did my german worker. I feel this bill introduced is the same type of racial profiling after all if a person from cananda is here illegal and working on a roof are the police going to stop and check him well no he looks american, but now if a hispanic is on the roof well now thats different. You understand what Im getting at so Ill leave it at that. I post adds in the paper for roofer’s for 3 months solid for Top and I do pay top pay, my question is why do I not get anyone to call me but the hispanics and 2 americans that when they showed up were so geeked up on something I could not trust or use them. My point here is dont target just the Hispanics, and remember there is alot of americans that donot wont to work, sorry but its true. If its a matter of taxes such as stated here then come up with a way for all to pay taxes but dont lie to target the hispanics we have alot more that are here Illegal.

By terri

February 9, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

I will be the first to say, yes, they do take jobs that no one else wants. They are hard workers, but if they dont come here legally, aren’t we rewarding them for doing wrong by letting them stay and receive benefits? I understand that where they come from is hard, and doesn’t pay very much. No one is saying that they can’t be here, just do it RIGHT and LEGAL!!

By Dick

February 9, 2006 12:02 PM | Link to this

Concerned, I agree about profiling. I also agree with statement about americans no longer willing to work for wages. The latest fad in our area is to go to social security adm local office, get admitted to local mental health hospital for a two week stay, and you are pretty well guaranteed disability checks for life. You mention abuse to those employed at SSA and they simply say “Mind your own business”. I tell them, I am minding my business, my tax dollars are being abused and wasted. Our government is teaching our citizens, don’t worry we will take care of you from the cradle to the grave. I know people like you in roofing business as well as other contractors who can’t get anyone to work.

By Bill

February 9, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this

Something is wrong with this situation. Upon reading this article, it only states baring them from governmental work, not to ban them completely from the illegal workforce. Doesn’t it state somewhere that it is illegal to hire illegal aliens from any nation, from a business standpoint. Why don’t the FEDS take the businesses away and close down whatever project that they are working on. Don’t allow them a change their business name and operate under a new one. When we can make sure that they are hiring only the ones with legal status will this issue go away.

By John

February 9, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

I am pleased that Chip has not made such a hard line approach to the immigration problem. The bill he considered introducing would have caused more problems than it solved. I think the outstanding issue is,though, that the majority of immigrants who DO pay taxes (Only the ignorant would claim they don’t). So if they pay their fair share, why should they be denied emergency care? Also, as a former insurance agent, I can tell you there are many illegals with health insurance. But, most Atlantans never enter a factory, or distribution facility, or cut 15 lawns a day to be able to get their facts straight. Instead they eat the crap our media feeds them because they were told it tastes like honey. It is only by God’s grace that we were born in the US and are blessed to travel most of the world over without a visa. And God’s grace that we don’t have to look for work in a foreign country. What? Did you think you earned being an American?

By Mimi

February 9, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

Well about public services I think that its important that every person in our state gets health care and vaccinations - thats just for the safety of all.

As for the “invasion of our borders”, that’s a silly description for it - people are coming here to work, not “invade,” and Georgia businesses are hiring them.

We’ll never get a handle on illegal immigration as long as people are hiring. I think that it is great that this bill at least looks at the demand side of the problem. It makes the bill sound serious, instead of just angry and revengeful.

By khanh

February 9, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

i have long tried to resist posting on this particular subject due to large part of where i came from. i was born in viet nam in the sixty. i came to the us after 1975 by way of the sea. the american ships were out side in international water waiting for us who made it out. after 1975, there was a new wave of refugees called ” the boat people”. these are the refugee who risk their lifes agaisnt the rough sea, philippinos pirates( stories of mothers and daughters being raped and then threw over board along with their dead husbands or fathers were common), and long detention in malaysia refugeee camps to come to america so they can experience what freedom is all about. i, along with these refugees, came to the us legally. we worked hard, often two or even three jobs to support our family and ourself. we paid taxes, state and federal. that said, i find the situation with the illegal refugee very disheartenning. it is like a slap in the face to us. we risk our life to come here and never can we go back. these people just simply walk accross the border, make money and go back home until they need money again. while they here, i have to pay for their children health care, school, financial aid and then some. this is the land of justice. apparently justice is only relavance when it serve as an enrichment purposes to certain individuals. it is sad.

By Ralph

February 9, 2006 12:21 PM | Link to this

Sen Chip Rogers and the rest of the GOP are complete idiots and are out of touch with society. A majority of illegal aliens who come to the US work hard and are law abiding. Why penalize them simply because they are here illegally? Many of our ancestors came here and were not legal, but they settled and made a better life for themselves. I do support stronger enforcement on those illegals who come here and do nothing but engage in criminal activity. America was founded as the land of opportunity. If one comes here illegally, but decides he/she is going to abide by the laws, work hard,etc, then they should not be penalized, simply for not being a citizen. The ones who engage in criminal lifestyle, then send them back or put them in jail. Everyone says they are tired of paying for social services and medical bills for illegals. Fact is, illegals cannot get medicaid or food stamps. If an illegal alien goes to the ER, but cannot pay, then the taxpayers pay, like the would if it was anyone without insurance. The GOP has ruined this country. There are better things Sen. Rogers and GOP could focus on than singling out illegals. First it was the Gays, and now illegal aliens. The GOP is a ship of fools. Illegal aliens have been coming to the US ever since the country was founded over 230 years ago, and they will continue to come, no matter what the govt. tries to do.

By CA

February 9, 2006 12:26 PM | Link to this

John,being born in any country is not a persons choice I agree, but being here illegal is wrong. The abundance of Hispanics in the U.S.A. is draining our Social programs regardless of what you say.

By Steve

February 9, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this

The 600 dollar exemption is this bill makes it ineffective. How many different names can a worker or employer make up!

By Dick

February 9, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

Ralph, The GOP may be a ship of fools, but I am sure glad I am on that ship. As a small business owner, the GOP has done more for me than democrats have ever done. I thought about it Tuesday hearing Jimmy Carter speak (J. Carter never has been, nor never will be no more than a waste of breath, the war in Iraq isn’t costing the tax payers of America any more money than the small business owners spent in interest and finance charges during his 4 years in office. I know, we had to borrow money at 22% to operate. Ole Jimmy and his family sure didn’t mind abusing the afro americans on their farms back in the 50’s and 60’s, no sir, he sure didn’t mind abusing them that is for sure.

By Sharon

February 9, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

One only needs to look to our far west neighbor California to see that illegals cause a strain on the budget. I have them in my neighborhood. They park all over their yards, and live 5-6 families to a house to be able to accept the low wages offered to them. Is that the dream we have for the future of America? They have anchor babies and I wait a long time at the grocery store for all the food stamps to be processed for those children born to illegals. The prices in the neighborhoods homes drop an many of those areas are older parts of town with older residence who can’t sell their homes for a fair price to get out now that the neighborhood looks like Mexico. Just drive down Jimmy Carter off the freeway to see all the bright yellow and red signs in a foreign language, empty stores and littered parking lots.

It is illegal to hire them, there is a law, we just can’t get it enforced. The real problem is we have no problem at all with giving raises to CEO’s over the last decade of over 400% for outsourcing and hiring illegals too, but we have a real problem with giving fair raises to citizens who are willing to work for a fair wage. How can decreasing our spending power since the 50’s (stats from the labor department) help pay taxes or healthcare or SS??? Let alone support families.

The facts are to compete with foreign nations, third world countries, we must pay the same wages as them. The part that business is missing is we can’t pay for the cars and the homes with the profits they want to make off of us with the third world wages. Drop your prices, we can work for less.
I am still waiting for my mortgage company to send me my payment reduction notice..

By concerned

February 9, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this

No Bill this is not only gov jobs, its anyone who works them. I just want to use people who work , if americans want to work i would use them but I can tell you this , you dont see them begging to work in the field of work im in and many other construction areas. My Hispanic crew makes on avg of $3000 per week for 4 people , my american crew makes $2200 per week for 6 people because they lay out 2 days per week. All im saying is if they have a clean background and will pay there taxes then make it easier for people to get legal, Now I ask you all, do you know anyone whos begging for work like hispanics and other immigrants ? if so let me know. If the immigrants have a clean history then make a way for them to work. And I can assure you they aint taken work from nobody in geogia that wants to work. If a person here wants to work and is clean of drugs/drunk/sex offender then he can work everyday so dont use the excuse work here and go there.

By j

February 9, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

I understand all the complaints against illegal immigration and sympathize with those concerned about this issue. But, as Americans we can not deny basic human rights to these individuals. Deny them an education and you breed ignorance, deny them benefits and you breed disease, deny them work and you breed poverty. Look at your President…former Governor of the state of Texas, which has one of the largest illegal immigration populations; he couldn’t control it then, and you can not control it now. Legal reform is tough, but it can not deny basic human rights to individuals. If you wish to protect your American values and country from illegal immigration…start at the border, then come talk to me about illegal immigrant reform. We have failed at boarder…not in our state legislation.

By John

February 9, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

CA, But times have changed. trust me, if Hispanics could get in this country legally, I bet my car they would. And why wouldn’t they? Truth is, the US issues fewer work permits than it did a decade or 15 years ago. And the poor have stayed poor. I am just glad these poor are willing to work. And just because it is illegal does not mean it is wrong, just like legal gay marriage does not make it right, in my book or God’s. I can think of more draining social programs in the USA- but I won’t venture down that trail just yet. I know I havent paid any more in taxes since immigration became a problem.

By mepl

February 9, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

You guys complain, complain, complain but I don’t see you guys trying to get there jobs, construction, landscaping, chicken factories etc. You guys think that those types of job are not good enough or that they don’t pay enough so someone has to do the job. They work very hard and sometimes up to 12 hours a day and they do pay taxes (get your information correct). I would love for this country to deport every illegal immigrant, just to see what he or she would do without them. LET’S BE REALISTIC. Citizens of this country hired them because they know that they work harder and better than there own people.

By Dick

February 9, 2006 12:39 PM | Link to this

Sharon, low wages offered to them. In South Georgia, we have many of the illegal immigrants making $350.00 a year cutting squash. Six days a week, that is some $2,100 a week. By the way, they are paid in cash, thus that is clear profit, wouldn’t you agree.

By Bill

February 9, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

Way to go Khanh, we all can learn from you more than you realize. Your situation is one of need and desire. You came to this country legally. I wish more immigrants would see the issue and speak up. It is not that we don’t want them, that is what the country is made of. There is a Legal Process.

By concerned

February 9, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

Anyway im done with this, send them all back. I will still roof your house with the crack heads and drunks that want to work a few days a week, and I will use my american crew who works 3 days a week and I will get to your roof when I can. Im sure when im done you will refer me to others. haha get real people make it so the ones who are willing to work can work.

By Ralph

February 9, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

Hey CA,

How do you figure that the abundance of Hispanics are draining our social programs? What social programs are you referring to? If you referring to health care, then I’d argue that whats really draining the system is America’s lack of universal health care. We are the greatest country, and yet we cannot provide universal basic health care coverage to our own citizens. Why? because of greed and Capitalism. I seriously doubt that us paying for the illegal Hispanic’s health care is draining more than us paying for the millions of US Citizens without health care, who clog the ER’s cause they have no insurance or physician. Fact is Hispanics have been a part of the USA since the continent was founded. Illegal Hispanics cannot get Medicaid or Medicare Food Stamps, as I work for the state. So what social programs are you concerned about being drained?

By Matt

February 9, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

Mimi, If you want free medical care and vaccines for everyone in the country, move to Canada, sit there and try to get the care you need. It is not as great as you think, plust you pay 60% of your check in taxes!Then tell me what you think about that!

By Matt

February 9, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

Mimi, If you want free medical care and vaccines for everyone in the country, move to Canada, sit there and try to get the care you need. It is not as great as you think, plus you pay 60% of your check in taxes!Then tell me what you think about that!

By concerned

February 9, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

Anyway im done with this, send them all back. I will still roof your house with the crack heads and drunks that want to work a few days a week, and I will use my american crew who works 3 days a week and I will get to your roof when I can. Im sure when im done you will refer me to others. haha get real people make it so the ones who are willing to work can work. If anything we should be forced to take taxes out if we are working them this way it gets paid, for now I would like to send them all back so I could see how many homeoweners like the new look construction world when it happens.

By JIMMY

February 9, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

LEAVE THE MEXICANS ALONE.WE NEED CHEAP LABOR AND WILLING WORKERS. IF YOU WANT TO CRACK DOWN ON SOMEONE STOP AMERICAN COMPANIES FROM SHIPPING ALL THE MANUFACTURING JOBS TO MEXICO,CHINA AND SOUTH AMERICA.YOU CAN’T TOUCH THAT PROBLEM BECAUSE THEY HAVE ENOUGH MONEY TO BUY THE POLITICIANS AND THE MIGRANT WORKERS DON’T.

By NJ

February 9, 2006 12:49 PM | Link to this

Ok I too tried to resist writing to these posts. They are always filled with hatred. However, I guess it is time to point out, there are numerous illegal aliens that pay taxes. Numerous businesses know that they are here illegally use dead people SSN’s and deduct taxes from there. Not only that the IRS allows them to have a Tax ID in which they can use to file their taxes yearly. As for the belief that we are paying for their schools, apparently the public and politicians do not know how prevalent this is. They are allowed to use their Tax ID’s to purchase homes. As we all know school taxes are taken from there. They contribute/pay for more than what the general public knows.

By Bill

February 9, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

What business are you? So, I don’t use your services. You at the time of Jimmys term , should have been wiping your nose or by now you should be using the Retirement services the the Democrats helped build up for all Americans. Jimmy may have not had a great run, but thats alot to do with the congress as well during that time and I believe the majority was Republican. He is the only one that still sweats for the country , instead of sitting on their behind watching your President allow the Illegal immigrants into this country.

By Ralph

February 9, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

Hey Dick, Glad that your proud to be a part of the GOP ship of fools. Enjoy the ride, cause the ship is sinking fast.

By Concerned

February 9, 2006 12:53 PM | Link to this

If anything we should be forced to take taxes out if we are working them, this way it gets paid if thats really the issue, but I dont think thats it at all, thats just away to get the law passed. Anyway im done with this, send them all back. I will still roof your house with the crack heads and drunks that want to work a few days a week, and I will use my american crew who works 3 days a week and I will get to your roof when I can. Im sure when im done you will refer me to others. haha get real people make it so the ones who are willing to work can work. Jimmy your out of touch , its not cheap labor its the same as anyone charges now.

By Bill

February 9, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

Sorry for the repeat this was for Dick

What business are you? So, I don’t use your services. You at the time of Jimmys term , should have been wiping your nose or by now you should be using the Retirement services the the Democrats helped build up for all Americans. Jimmy may have not had a great run, but thats alot to do with the congress as well during that time and I believe the majority was Republican. He is the only one that still sweats for the country , instead of sitting on their behind watching your President allows the Illegal immigrants into this country.

By James

February 9, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this

Ralph, Communist China called. They want their idiot back. You’re booked on the next plane to Bejing.

“Why penalize them simply because they are here illegally?” Umm…because they’re ILLEGAL?!? That’s equivocal to saying “why penalize him/her simply because he/she murdered somebody?” And before you start…no, I’m not equating illegal immigration to murder. I’m equating breaking a law with breaking a law. Laws exist for a reason, and there are penalties for breaking those laws.

By alias

February 9, 2006 01:05 PM | Link to this

Send all the illegal mexicans back to whence they came. They don’t abide by our laws, refuse to speak our language, and send half of what they make back to mexico. So they do the work no one wants to do - big whoop. Instead of hiring illegals, go hire some panhandlers downtown. Some have signs letting you know they are willing to work……….

By Tara

February 9, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

Actually, SB 529 has NOT been formally introduced yet, and it has not been assigned to committee. It’s in the Senate Hopper, and it’s expected to be introduced on the next legislative day, which is Monday Feb 13.

By John

February 9, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

And why shouldn’t morals be at issue here. I will say again- illegal immigration does not amount to wrong, just like legal gay marriage does not amount to right. And if you want to equate breaking the law with breaking the law? First of all, that is a stupid argument. Second of all, every Atlantan breaks the law every day on the roadways in some way, and we all expect to get away with it. Bring ligitimate arguments to the table.

By Mark

February 9, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

Tough topic. A couple of quick clarifying points. Many illegals pay taxes (and more than just state sales tax). In order to get jobs, you must have a Tax ID (not necessarily an SSN) - something that many employers check. Many illegals can procure false Tax IDs, with having SSNs. Illegals who became illegal by overstaying a visa vs. those “crossing the border” will many times have a Tax ID. My wife, who overstayed her visa and was at one point illegal, paid taxes every year on the meager income she earned. She did it, because she knew this was the right thing to do. Don’t let ignorance drive this debate. Get educated…

By mike townes

February 9, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

I feel on immigration that our country is stupid as hell. If american born citizens go to any other country they act like s** towards u. When they r here they act like now they r better then u.. But what i dont understand is if they work hard then y is there country so poor to all immigrant no matter what never be a traitor to ur country.our politicians r letting the legal ones in the millitary but y if they traded on there country then they will trade on this one believe me its not hard to want to do.. Immigrants bring nothing to the tabel the government need to tell there gov to take care of there people and stop being stupid as foriegners and get there country together, comon u know we will help u s** thats all we do is help, when is america going to get help if its so gud here y aint the minnimum wage 15 dollars an hour then get rid of them all of them they just pose a bigger threat to our security. I bet they would not let us come to there country and get bennifits either… and yes we do pay for there kids in schools y do my pay have to go to schools i dont even have any kids that go to school… put to something gud like organizations that will stop immigrants period… just come and visit and go home like we do.. ohh i forgot they couldnt unless they come here illegal and make money.. I feel like hitler on this one…

By Mark

February 9, 2006 01:15 PM | Link to this

There is some nuance to this argument that many of the folks on this thread can’t seem to appreciate. Being here illegally is wrong. Period. You can’t argue that. Not even the “Your parents came here from another country” argument will suffice. That being said, the fact that it takes 13 years (real number) for a single person to go through the immigration process (on average) tells me that the illegals aren’t the only culpaple ones here. We can’t fix the problem by securing the borders. As the Dept. of Homeland Sec.chief says, this would be like the 400 year plan - it would take that long to secure everything - and they would still parachute in. Fix the problem, not the symptom. We don’t have enough $$ to secure the borders, and our economy would tank without these workers. Find a better solution…

By john

February 9, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this

Mike, your education and argument is worse than your writing. We should have paid for you to go to school.

By Tom

February 9, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this

The problem with illegal immigration from all countries is that it depresses the wages for unskilled labor. If employers seeking unskilled labor paid higher wages, they would be getting better employees. People willing to work for low wages come from very poor countries. They still live in poverty here, but it is better than what they had. Unfortunately, by allowing illegal immigration, we are creating a new class of the poor. If we stop illegal immigration and create a monitored, regulated guest worker program, then it will raise the pay to unskilled labor and ensure that those coming here for jobs do not have to live in poverty.

Funny how the Democrats champion themselves as protecting the poor by promoting an increase in minumum wage, but they will not take a step to force the market to raise wages.

By John

February 9, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

Tom, I think you have the most legitimate and reasonable idea as to how we fix our immigration problem. And people ignore the fact that Bush has the same reasonable idea and plan!!

By Tom

February 9, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this

For Bill,

FYI, both the house and the senate were controlled by Dems when Carter was President. The truth is — no one liked the man from either party.

By Tom

February 9, 2006 01:25 PM | Link to this

For John

Thanks. Unforunately President Bush only wants to create a guest worker problem but is not interested in border security. Both parties are culpable.

By nParry

February 9, 2006 01:50 PM | Link to this

The only unskilled labor is the one that the legal, legitimate, US citizenry that we are breeding in our country now. Half-educated high-school kids who can’t read or write properly; can’t work efficiently and are always on some substance. The illegals are the new Americans and let’em become legitimate so that the brightest ones among them become our future Senators and Congressmen. Not the corrupt, incompetent, Bible-toting “leaders” we have now!!

By jg

February 9, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this

We NEED people to take those jobs we “Americans” won’t do.

We cannot fault them for wanting to come here to make a better life for themselves. My grandparents did - BUT they learned the language and adapted to the laws of this country. I never once heard them bad mouth this country. They were proud to become Americans without forgetting their heritage.

The value of property goes down when apartment complexes rent out a 2 bedroom unit and allow 15-20 people to live there with 7 vans. The same for persons who rent their homes - they care about the money.

The same with jobs. You can say I want to get off cheap and hire an illegal. But then you can also say I want to pay someone who is willing to put in a days work and show up tomorrow.

The Latin American Association is at fault for not stepping up and educating these people on some simple things (you can’t pee anywhere you want to, you cannot date 12 year old girls, please use the dumpster when disposing of your trash, seatbelts are required and your infant needs to be in a carseat)

The victims are these Hispanic children. Their parents are uneducated and (for the most part) unwilling to learn and adapt to this country.

But - there are some wonderful illegal people I have met - I live in Chamblee. Some of them chose to come here to make a better life for themselves and their families. To learn and embrace this country - like Giuseppe & Dora did!

By C Bassett

February 9, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this

Illegal immigrants-the only thing I want my tax dollars to go to is making sure that they aren’t here. It doesn’t matter whether they pay taxes or have jobs that no one else wants. If an employer has to pay more to hire a legal resident, all of us will benefit in the long run.

By filster

February 9, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

There are pros and cons for illegal immigrants. yes, they break the law. So do you when you toss a cigarette butt out your window. Different scales I agree, but it seems like the real issue comes down to money. I think illegals do take up social servies, etc. At my daughter’s school, over 1/3 of the studetns are hispanic, many non-English speaking and you will never convince me that having 1/3 of your class does not detract from the quality of education the other students receive. But since we’re arguing about money, and a number of illegals do not pay “regular” taxes yet draw from that pot, this is a perfect time to go to a flat, or comsumption, tax because you know what, here legally or not, everyone, and I repeat everyone, consumes. Of the billions of dollars that leaves this country annually to go back home, I think we’d all be amazed at how much would be recouped by a consumption tax. And if this argument is about money, that just may solve it. As for securing our borders, Juan Valdez is not who I’m worried about walking across our borders.

By mimi

February 9, 2006 02:05 PM | Link to this

Matt,

Dummy, you want an epidemic or what? When I said that vaccinations are for the safety of all, I was serious. Once an infectious disease gets started, it doesn’t care what color your passport is. Denying vaccinations to your neighbors is downright stupid, its cutting off your nose to spite your face.

Same thing with crime, come to think of it. If immigrants are afraid to go to the police when theres a child molester or a murder or an assault - well you’ve just given the criminals a head start and a couple years to develop their tactics before they come knocking on your door.

I’m all for stopping illegal immigration and finding ways for businesses to meet their cheap labor needs legally.

Sounds like you just want to punish people and I don’t think thats very helpful or smart.

• Mimi

By DW

February 9, 2006 02:18 PM | Link to this

Its about jobs not social services. Illegal immigrants come here first for work, not for our schools and health care. By asking schools and health care to act as immigration police is not the answer. Eliminate the jobs, and you eliminate the problem.

I work in health care. These immigrants will go to hospitals when they are on deaths doorsteps because they will be affraid to get primary care. This costs everyone more! Denying public benefits really means denying hospitals and doctors payment for treating these people. Remember, Federal law requires hospitals to treat all emergency patients, regardless of their ability to pay. All this bill does is hospitals sorry, figure out some other way to cover your costs because the state is not paying. By the way, if you have insurance, you will pay for these costs. What a deal, you get to pay taxes then you get higher insurance premiums to cover those patients who don’t pay.

By atltoday..

February 9, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this

there is no way we would allow immigrants if minorities like black and asians still did these kinds of jobs but because society has changed, we need those who’ll work these jobs to get ahead. I’m grateful for what they doing and i’ll continue to pay any taxes with no problems for anyone who’s trying to do better and not use the system. I’m paying for the companies who are off source that this administration allowed to have their corporate headquarters in bermuda,etc. why not the poor?

By atltoday

February 9, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

there is no way we would allow immigrants if minorities like black and asians still did these kinds of jobs but because society has changed, we need those who’ll work these jobs to get ahead. I’m grateful for what they doing and i’ll continue to pay any taxes with no problems for anyone who’s trying to do better and not use the system. I’m paying for the companies who are off source that this administration allowed to have their corporate headquarters in bermuda,etc. why not the poor?

By Shaun

February 9, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

I do have a problem with illegals being here, not because I don’t like them but if you are here, learn our language, speak it, not spanish. Also, the illegals are paying taxes, but not with thier ss number, they buy a card off the streets and use that number, I had someone working under my ss number and found out it was an illegal immigrant. I say, if you are hear, speak English, and get your own ss number.

By cc

February 9, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

What bothers me about immigrants is that they are not willing to learn our language and they also have several families that live under one roof. I am so tired of them saying in spanish no english which is b.s. when they can speak it. Alot of them do not pay taxes and the employers pay them under the table just to get cheap labor and most of the time the work is not properly done either. I know they do not have a choice where they were born but they should have to follow the laws like everyone else.

By Paul

February 9, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

When will you people wake up. We are being invaded! If you don’t stop it now, your job could be next. These people are bringing their gangs, guns and drugs into our communities. They broke the law to get here and they don’t give a damn about our laws. They want to make the U.S. part of Mexico…and so does Mexico President Fox. We need to put all of them on a bus and send them back to Mexico! Then build a wall on the border and if they try to sneak across we shoot them. Kill one, train a thousand!!! I don’t want them here, we don’t need them here and the rest of you need to realize it before they rape your daughter,kill your son, take your job and steal your identity.

By Danny

February 9, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this

Being invaded my as#@! It’s people like you that we should be afraid of. I say build a wall and keep folks like you out of the country. gangs guns and drugs have been here since the country was founded. Our daughters have been raped, sons killed jobs taken, and identity stolen long before the illegal Mexicans arrived. Look at history.

By at

February 9, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

Illegal Immigration

It is sad that when most think illegal immigration they think only think “mexicans” or “hispanics”. Yes “mexicans” or “hispancis” are commiting crimes, but at least they are not blowing up buildings. They are here and are working. Yes some are living off the government, and it is not fair, but many “americans” are living off the goverment also. Most of these “americans” had more of an opportunity than many “mexicans” to make something of themselves, to receive an education, yet they chose not to take the opportunity. Though hispanic I am a U.S. citizen. My great great grandparents were born in the United States. I was born in Texas and after getting married a year ago I moved to Georgia. I hate that in Georgia because I am hispanic they treat me as a low life who is living off the government who does not know english. I, nor my parents have lived off the goverment. Though my grandparents did not receive a high school education (they had to work to help their famalies), they worked hard so that their children could. Though my grandparents had 14 children and my granfather was the only one that worked (he owned his own construction company), he refused to let my aunt and uncles and mother get free lunch. If they could not pay for the lunch at school my grandmother would prepare their lunch. I am sure there are many “hispanics” doing the same now.

Life is not fair. We can not expect for a “man” just as imperfect as you and I to solve these problems. Anyways when this land was created was their any borders?

By Mel

February 9, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

wow. you people are really naive. Simple math shows illegals’ benefit to this country is far, far outweighed by the cost. If you look at a small town, for example, where illegals have moved, you will understand the impact. I watched a small town die from the influx of illegals. The town first had Asian workers who came by the thousands, legally, and learned English and became members of society, moving on from the chicken plants to better jobs. The hispanic illegals have no desire to do so. They refuse to learn the language, they don’t pay for medical care, and they have driven the crime rate up dramatically. Only those in glass bubbles who haven’t seen the impact of this would dare say they are good for America.

Even if, for arguments sake, all illegals paid taxes, they would not make up for the social services, especially the rampant pregnancy problem. The amount of money they make, if taxed, doesn’t allow for a lot of taxes to be paid. $7.00 per hour will not net a large tax base. But they certainly know how to take advantage of the services that we have. And the disease and crime they bring is unacceptable. We are not a third world country, but given the numbers who are coming here in droves, who are considered the lower classes of Mexico, we will become one. And all of us who pay more than our share of taxes will do what we do best…pay for it all.

The reason illegals do the menial jobs is because they have to, not because they have some “want” to do them. They made their beds, and have to lie in them. Further, being in the construction business, I see the great work you claim illegals do. They know no difference in working here than on the broken down homes in Mexico, and the work shows it. Very few are great at their work, nor do they care. They work because they have to make money, just like the rest of us.

The point is the word ILLEGAL. We should not reward good behavior. This bill, though it’s mostly lip service on the state level, is at least a start.

By Mel

February 9, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this

sorry, I meant we should not reward “bad” behavior.

By Illegal Means Illegal!

February 9, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

The word “illegal” says it all. No one should be in this country illegally. Yes, they are draining our resources. Not only that-they bring gangs, littering, noise, and too many occupants to one household, ruining neighborhoods. I have personally seen neighborhoods get literally trashed because of illegals. Most of them are driving without licenses or insurance. We don’t know who these people are - if they murder someone, they get off scott free because they are undocumented. They bring disease and rodents with them also putting a strain on our health system. We don’t know who’s crossing the borders - does that sound like a lack of national security to you? Why are we enticing these people with jobs, benefits, food, and housing? The government needs to start enforcing their own rules and so do the local police who act like like they are all invisible!

By Rob

February 9, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

Paul at least have the guts to have a real e-mail where we can contact you. Last I checked no illegal Hispanics were terrorists, stole anything or raped anyone.

They are here to make a better life for themselves much like your great-grandfather or great-great grandfather came to America many years ago to make a better life for his family. Chances are he was also “illegal”

As a matter a fact unless you are in the minority of Native Americans or moved here recently with all your documents we are all “illegal”.

By Susie

February 9, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this

One simple fact seems to be overlooked on this subject. They are here ILLEGALLY. There is one simple solution; get the necessary papers to become legal. Why is that so hard. Most of the other immigrants have to go through extensive learning to become legal, why should they be exempted from doing the same. I know the answer to that. If any American is caught without a valid DL we would go to jail too. That’s not profiling, that’s the law. You see the bottom line is it is working for a certain class of business owners and that’s where the dilemna lies. It will always be the same, we have to have a lower class to be the backbone on which our country is being built. There will always be a certain class that’s to lazy to do it themselves. So we are supposed to be ignorant to the fact and sit back and allow them to come in a drain American’s resources and say nothing about it. WE ALL NEED TO WAKE UP!!!!

By William

February 9, 2006 02:59 PM | Link to this

This is a serious situation.

I know of some hispanics that have a strong desire to become a citizen of the U. S. and would pay taxes. Would it be or is it possible to become a citizen while presently living in the U.S. If not, then why?

With my experience with Hispanics, unfortunately, there are some that don’t want to pay their taxes. Why? Because they have no interest in staying here the rest of their lives. They take the money that has been given to them and run back to their country.

There needs to be a balance on this situation.

By NAP

February 9, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this

I CAME TO AMERICA IN 1996 FROM A SOUTHAMERICAN COUNTRY. SINCE THEN I LOVE THIS COUNTRY, MUCH MORE THAN I LOVE MY OWN COUNTRY. I KNOW THAT GOD SENT ME HERE. I’M HERE FOR A PURPOSE, NOT TO TAKE JOBS AWAY, NOT TO FIGHT AGAINST THIS NATION. I LOVE AMERICA, AND I KNOW A LOT OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WHO LOVE THIS COUNTRY LIKE I DO, BUT ARE DECLINED TO THE OPPORTUNITY OF APLPLIYNG FOR CITIZENSHIP - OR A GUEST WORKER PERMIT. I APPLIED FOR A GREEN CARD IN 2001 AND STILL DIDN’T RECEIVE ANYTHING. BELIEVE ME WE IMMIGRANTS CAN HELP THIS NATION, WE ARE HERE TO BE A BLESSING, NOT A CURSE (MYSELF AND THE ONES I KNOW), BUT STILL ALL WE NEED IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO PROVE THAT WE CAN HELP THIS NATION GROW EVEN FASTER. I THANK YOU ALL FOR LETTING, IF I MAY CALL “OUR LAND”, TO STILL BE THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. GOD BLESS YOU AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

By NAP

February 9, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this

I CAME TO AMERICA IN 1996 FROM A SOUTH AMERICAN COUNTRY. SINCE THEN I LOVE THIS COUNTRY, MUCH MORE THAN I LOVE MY OWN COUNTRY. I KNOW THAT GOD SENT ME HERE. I’M HERE FOR A PURPOSE, NOT TO TAKE JOBS AWAY, NOT TO FIGHT AGAINST THIS NATION. I LOVE AMERICA, AND I KNOW A LOT OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WHO LOVE THIS COUNTRY LIKE I DO, BUT ARE DECLINED TO THE OPPORTUNITY OF APLPLIYNG FOR CITIZENSHIP - OR A GUEST WORKER PERMIT. I APPLIED FOR A GREEN CARD IN 2001 AND STILL DIDN’T RECEIVE ANYTHING. BELIEVE ME WE IMMIGRANTS CAN HELP THIS NATION, WE ARE HERE TO BE A BLESSING, NOT A CURSE (MYSELF AND THE ONES I KNOW), BUT STILL ALL WE NEED IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO PROVE THAT WE CAN HELP THIS NATION GROW EVEN FASTER. I THANK YOU ALL FOR LETTING, IF I MAY CALL “OUR LAND”, TO STILL BE THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. GOD BLESS YOU AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

By NAP

February 9, 2006 03:03 PM | Link to this

I CAME TO AMERICA IN 1996 FROM A SOUTH AMERICAN COUNTRY. SINCE THEN, I LOVE THIS COUNTRY MUCH MORE THAN I LOVE MY OWN COUNTRY. I KNOW THAT GOD SENT ME HERE. I’M HERE FOR A PURPOSE, NOT TO TAKE JOBS AWAY, NOT TO FIGHT AGAINST THIS NATION. I LOVE AMERICA, AND I KNOW A LOT OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WHO LOVE THIS COUNTRY LIKE I DO, BUT ARE DECLINED TO THE OPPORTUNITY OF APPLYING FOR CITIZENSHIP - OR A GUEST WORKER PERMIT. I APPLIED FOR A GREEN CARD IN 2001 AND STILL DIDN’T RECEIVE ANYTHING. BELIEVE ME, WE IMMIGRANTS CAN HELP THIS NATION, WE ARE HERE TO BE A BLESSING, NOT A CURSE (MYSELF AND THE ONES I KNOW), BUT STILL ALL WE NEED IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO PROVE THAT WE CAN HELP THIS NATION GROW EVEN FASTER. I THANK YOU ALL FOR LETTING, IF I MAY CALL “OUR LAND”, TO STILL BE THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. GOD BLESS YOU AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

By Jared

February 9, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

I completely agree with Mel. It is interesting how most Asian immigrants have become productive members of American society, often making more money than white Americans. You don’t really see many poor Asians in this country, and they also aren’t out committing a lot of crimes and living off of our welfare system. It’s even very interesting to see how the children of Asian Americans excel in education, probably more so than white people! That’s because Asian immigrants have values that most other immigrants don’t have. These illegal immigrants here have no desire to pay taxes, and how can they when most of the money they earn is not reported? The people who pay illegals do so “under the table.” However, illegals, specifically Mexicans, are a burden on our welfare system and contribute to rising crime and poverty in our neighborhoods. In addition, they are a burden in our school system where their children are not meeting academic standards! And why is it that everyone caters to these people by posting signs and information in Spanish…? By posting everything in Spanish, that gives these people no incentive to assimilate in the general (and productive) part of the American population.

It’s about time the government takes action to curb benefits for illegals. While they may be doing the jobs that no one “wants,” I guarantee there are a lot of immigrants here legally who WILL do those jobs!

By Donna

February 9, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

I recently went to Worcester, Massachusetts and was astonished to see white, black, and mixed raced Americans doing landscaping, working at McDonalds, cleaning our hotel room, and working at the Wal-mart. DO NOT tell me that illegal immigrants are doing jobs Americans won’t do. Go up North and you will see Americans doing these jobs. You may ask how did I know they were Americans? Well, I spoke to them in English and they understood me and the ones I spoke to told me they were born and raised in the New England area.

By Donna

February 9, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

I recently went to Worcester, Massachusetts and was astonished to see white, black, and mixed raced Americans doing landscaping, working at McDonalds, cleaning our hotel room, and working at the Wal-mart. DO NOT tell me that illegal immigrants are doing jobs Americans won’t do. Go up North and you will see Americans doing these jobs. You may ask how did I know they were Americans? Well, I spoke to them in English and they understood me and the ones I spoke to told me they were from the New England area.

By Age

February 9, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

To mepl,

They hire your people because you work for $.25 an hour, they don’t have to provide any benefits and they can over work you. It has NOTHING to do with your people being harder workers…

By Illegal Means Illegal!

February 9, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

Susie, I agree with you that you cannot call requiring someone to have a driver’s license “racial profiling.” I think that another thing most americans get upset about is that we as americans are required to follow certain rules. Illegals come here, break all the rules, and never pay the consequences. Rules should be across the board for everyone in this country. Not one set of rules for legals, and another for illegals. Everyone should be held to the same standards.

By Illegal Means Illegal!

February 9, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this

Age, you’re right - they have jobs that pay them so low but they don’t care because they CANT get jobs elsewhere without documentation. Plus, the money they make here seems like nothing to us, but when you send it to Mexico, it is a gold mine! They are probably sending it to their families and stashing it away. Would you mind going to Mexico to perform some menial job for about 2 years knowing that every time you send $1 home it is like sending $100 dollars home?

By Illegal Means Illegal!

February 9, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

Age, you’re right - they have jobs that pay them so low but they don’t care because they CANT get jobs elsewhere without documentation. Plus, the money they make here seems like nothing to us, but when you send it to Mexico, it is a gold mine! They are probably sending it to their families and stashing it away. Would you mind going to Mexico to perform some menial job for about 2 years knowing that every time you send $1 home it is like sending $100 dollars home? They are really making laughing stocks out of us, not themselves.

By AG

February 9, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

Americans are the ones who are paying illegal immigrants. If you don’t want them here then don’t hire them that’s it!! If you love your country so much stop hiring illegal aliens and they will leave because there is no way they can get a job. But hey hold on!! American entrepreneurs want to save a bunch of money!! So the best thing is to hire an illegal alien. Even if you put the great wall of United States in the border, people will find a way to cross. That is not a solution. My whole family died in Mexico and I flew to the USA with a tourist visa. I stayed here and started to wash dishes, yes, there are americans who will do that job because they desperately need the money but believe they don’t stay in those jobs for long and they are not as productive as latins in that aspect. I’ve build my way up without taking the job away from anybody, now I make 50 K a year and every two weeks I pay 300 dollars in taxes. The only guys who don’t pay taxes are the guys who work in construction that are hired and paid by americans to help them out.

By Renee

February 9, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this

My opinion is that something needs to be done. I am a single parent supporting my daughter on one salary. I am not allowed any assistance from the government. However, these illegals that have two people supplying income are allowed to receive the benefits that a legal citizan can not.

By ALKAuburn

February 9, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

I am so for regulations on all of this studpid immagrants that come here. I am not against them coming but i want them to be legal, speak ENGLISH, and i want to be able to go to town and not every sign and store be cattered to hispanic people, if i wanted to see that i would totally go to Mexico or Spain or something like that ok. I thank its a great thing what there trying to do.

By BJ

February 9, 2006 03:29 PM | Link to this

Is above time somebody do something about this old situation, too much illegal immigrant is the county and the majority of them do not pay taxes but yet reap a lot of benefits that i or other legal immigrant do not qualify for because of out atatus, also they get jobs that and left legal people without job I have been looking for a job for a long time know and had to take what i have because i could not find anything else. georgia is over populated with illegal immigrant and something must be done if not i do not know what will become of georgia in the next 5 to 10 years. I agree sent then back, I am a legal immigrant who waited for my documents to be approved by the Immigration services and so can they what is the rush form them.

By Illegal Means Illegal!

February 9, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

So what our government is saying is that if you have been here your whole life, abided by the rules, paid taxes, etc. you cannot get any help from the government because you make too much money even though you are a single parent trying to make it on your own. Now on the other hand, if you come here illegally, don’t pay taxes, and don’t abide by our rules, we will give you food, housing, jobs, etc., anything you want. So basically that is a slap in the face to law abiding american citizens.

By Susie

February 9, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

Everybody should know that when they said “illegal” they only think about Mexicans, but the reality is that there are blacks, whites and asians and any other kind of race in this country that are illegaly in the US. These illegal people complains as to the US system. If you do not like the system go back to whereever you came from, anyway, everyone somehow violates the law and takes advantages of the system for their own benefits. All people living in the US should follow the law of the US, if you don’t like it leave. People that doesn’t speak English, learn the language is for your own good benefit, anyway. GOD MADE THE WORLD, but man made the rules in the world. Stop everything about Mexicans just because we look Hispanic, it doesn’t mean we are Mexican.

By yeah, but...

February 9, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this

well, I have a cleaning company, and I say I want those jobs I keep getting told I don’t want. I am under-bid to a point that I just can’t match Latino bids on contracts. it’s just me and my family, we have to pay taxes, we get no financial help from the government and our driveway isn’t a parking lot. even little things, folks, if you just look at fabric softener and laundry detergent in Walmart, the one that has the spanish label is sometimes almost a dollar cheaper, same manufacturer, same qty, same material, it’s all gotten to a ridiculous point. no good person wants to see other people done wrong, but there is a fair and common sense way to do things. but from what I see in my daily life, most Latinos do not care about Americans one bit, and then tell us we should care so much about them or we’re being prejudicial and discriminating. the smart thing for me to do was to start learning Spanish, I have, and have noticed a lot of discrimination coming from the Latino side. in the doctor’s office waiting room, interviewing new clients and talking Americans down, to calling supervisors f’ing whiteys, to cars and trucks I see with ‘La Raza’ on them, it means ‘The Race’, which is what a lot of Mexicans call themselves, and by not talking about America in general, but as ‘Our America’. compromise is needed and the tolerant, friendly, generous, and helpful Americans have a shorter distance to go to get to the middle ground.

By Ralph

February 9, 2006 03:52 PM | Link to this

Jared,

Illegal Immigrants CANNOT get Medicaid or Medicare, and food stamps, So what welfare system do they live off of?

My step-daughter goes to a school with alot of Hispanics. I have been to the classroom, open house, and asked her about the Hispanics. Not once have I seen or thought that they are a burden on our society. They work hard yes.

My Hispanic neighbor who I know is illegal gets up at 4 am and works until dark in the plumbing business. He lives a good quiet lifestye. His kids play with mine, and they are very well mannered. My other neighbor, the middle aged white dude, is on workers comp disability ( yet I saw him unloading a new refrigerator) and has a drunk roommate, whom the sheriff has had to visit several times, once cause he took a cab to buy booze and did not want to pay. So I will support any person, despite being a illegal citizen, works hard and causes no trouble. FYI I am an Atlanta native, Democrat, and white male married to a black woman, for those who want to know.

All Americans were immigrants at one time, the only true citizens were the Native American Indians. Most of our ancestors were probably not legal, and lived off of the system. They had public housing in NYC during the 1800’s to deal with all the Irish, Polish, and German immigrants coming to Ellis Island.. IF an Hispanic, Asian, etc, comes to America, the land of freedom work hards, stays out of trouble, and contributes(not necessarily taxes) to make their lives good, and earns a living,then their citizenship shouldn’t matter. Call me a Communist, Liberal, I don’t care. I have said all that I want to on the subject,

By Alex

February 9, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

First of all i would like to share my opinion on this matter, im a native californian but my parents are both from mexico we have been here in the United States for about 16 years. Most people say that illegal immingrants are taking jobs from Americans well the honest truth is that they are not actually taking the jobs away from anyone beacuse no one is doing the jobs anyways. 95% of illegals do pay taxes to the IRS, most immigrants dont gat a check back from the irs but they still do it anyways just to obey the laws in this country because they know that they are only guests in this country and they wouldnt like for an American to go to their country and just live there for free. Lets be realistic here everyone knows that the illegal immigrants are helping out the economy after our wounderful president sent it to hell! but even before that during the Clinton administration immigrants were helping out America they if you like it or not they helped build the great country that we now live in, dont get me wrong im not saying that they did it all by them selves. Im sorry to say this but the goverment is not going to stop immigration in a way thats bad but in a way thats good…i dont see any Americans working out in the pickin’ fields. Lets be realistic no matter what the goverment does they will not eliminate Immigration…one more thing why are people mad at mexicans when there are illegals from everywhere! They must be blind or something. Just take a good look around you and see the great country that you live in and leave them alone!

By Larry

February 9, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

Finally something is being done about the invasion of this country from Mexico. If I break the law I have to answer for that violation. Illigal aliens flaunt the rule of law in our face and laugh at the cowardness of most politicians. Illigal immigrations keep wages artifically low and naturally the business community benefits. Working class native born Americans are the ones who loose! Deportation NOW! Savannah

By Jared

February 9, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

Ralph,

If an illegal, or anyone for that matter, goes to ER at the hospital, they will NOT be refused care. In spite of a popular myth, hospitals DO NOT refuse care. So guess who has to pay for their services when they cannot??! You got it… The tax payers.

You really need to take another look at the bigger picture here instead of what is just around you personally.

By Dane

February 9, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

that was then, this is now. focus, baby, focus!

By Ralph

February 9, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

RENEE AND ALL One last note. Everyone b*** about illegals getting govt assistance while they cannot get any help.

Illegals cannot get government assistance such as Medicaid or Food stamps, etc. That is a myth being swirled around by the GOP to support their agenda. That is the key problem here. Everyone thinks that all illegals get free government assistance, which is not the case, as I work for the govt. IF they go to the ER, then the govt pays as it does for all persons who have no insurance or money (federal law). Get the facts right

By Shaun

February 9, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

You go Ralph! And I am black……

By payroll administrator

February 9, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this

this is a hoot! check my name out, I KNOW WHAT I’M TALKING ABOUT. how many of you saying illegal immigrants pay taxes ACTUALLY PROCESS PAYROLL?

where i work, we have many hispanic employees, some who are admittedly illegal and/or falsified documented. because of the a*-backwards laws of the land, even if we UNknowingly hire an illegal alien, we still can’t fire them on those grounds. BUT, the govt can still fine us for hiring illegal aliens. catch-22, anyone??

i can tell you right now that of the 30 or so hispanic employees we have (it’s a country club - so that includes majority of the golf course staff, the cleaning crew, majority of kitchen staff, and a few stragglers on tennis and wait staff) only about 8 (E-I-G-H-T!!!) pay taxes, or pay a miniscule amount of state taxes. hardly any single one of them pays federal. it’s all about exemptions and deductions because most hispanic men come here without their wives, or “claim” they came here without their wives. they get to claim (unmarried)head of household plus all the amigos they’re “housing” as dependents. imagine if there’s 10 men living in the home and THEY ALL GET TO CLAIM HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD AND 9 DEPENDENTS!!! suuuuuure they’re paying taxes….how laughable!

NOT TO MENTION that many, many “immigrants” (again, laughable…they ought to just be called crooks) obtain seasonal work so they can hoard as much cash as possible in the states and go back home (you know, they’re REAL home) for the winter. hey, it’s much warmer in mexico during the winter and they can live comfortably until it’s time to go rob the americans again.

if anything, you gotta give these guys credit for working the system.

By Dane

February 9, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

I am a native Atlantan, and know that before illegal immigration was a problem that we had our houses built, we had our roads paved, we had food on the table, illegal immigration brought us none of that, it was already here, and things don’t seem to cost any less now, then they did then. maybe we have to build more houses, farm more food and build more new highways to support our growing illegal immigrant community.

By Ralph

February 9, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

Hey payroll administrator, If the Hispanics upset you working the system, then why don’t your rich country club friends work and clean the golf course, work in kitchen. Then you can be the one to work the system, just like all the corporate execs do, who hang out at the country clubs.

By Christy

February 9, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

I am sorry, I agree with this new bill. I am a Controller for a local HVAC company, and have recently learned that we have quite a few illegals. It irritated me one day in a meeting because someone was talking while I explained the new benfits and found out he was translating. After the meeting I asked the HR manager (whom works for me) were they illegal and she gave me a look. I call them BOBS and she said that we did have a few BOBS on staff. I told them that it was unacceptable and they needed to get some paperwork showing they were legal or I would let them go. So they went onto Buford Hwy and got new names and tried to act as if i didnt remember them. I said all LEGAL AMERICANS SPEAK ENGLISH. IF YOU DONT SPEAK ENGLISH YOU DONT WORK HERE. They left. Then i found i had a few more and one came to ask me how to change his withholdings to pay less taxes. I told him when he could prove to me through Immigration he wasnt illegal i would tell him. I do not condone someone paying less or no taxes and then his wife is getting food stamps and medicaid. HELL NO! Then I see that most of thier checks were cashed in MEXICO. Again, HELL NO! I think it is a sorry person that purposely breaks the law and thinks that it is ok. If they were walking around raping people noone would have a problem with a law to ban them. WELL WAKE UP AMERICA THEY ARE RAPING ALL OF US. My mother is an attorney for the DHR and says that at least 20% of their clients are illegal. They receive our benefits and want to contribute nothing to the funds that make those services available. I think that people are being a little to critical on Americans saying that illegals are taking the jobs that americans dont want. Tell me where those jobs are i know alot of americans looking for a job.

By Illegal Means Illegal!

February 9, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

Ask yourself these questions - do you have to pay for a tag for your car, do you have to pay for a driver’s license, do you pay automobile insurance? Most illegals don’t. How about this - can you walk into a clinic and get free health care? Can you get free food? Most legal citizens can’t. Can you have 10 people living in one house without someone reporting that - I doubt it. Believe me, as far as public assistance, the illegals are first on the agenda to recieve help with bills, food, housing, etc.If the illegals respect our country so much, tell them to STOP LITTERING in the country they supposedly love so much. They love it so much supposedly that their gangs go around terrorizing our neighborhoods and putting graffiti on everything. They drive around in cars that sound like trucks making it sound like a race track everywhere they go. That’s how much they love the country that is helping them out even though they are here illegally. No one should be in this country illegally PERIOD.

By Danny

February 9, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this

Hey Christy, I work for the state agency (not DHR) that provides Medicaid so I know that NO illegal can get Medicaid, the only thing that an illegal can get if they meet income requirements and are not a citizen is “Emergency Medical Assistance, which normally applies in cases were the woman is expectant and in distress, and only pays for life threatening situations or distress. The problem is that DHR is a screwed up agency who hasn’t been verifing residency when signing folks up for Food stamps or Medicaid. I see so many legal citizens lying about their income, saying anything to get Medicaid. To me the 20 % your refering to are the ones that DFACS and DHR failed to properly screen.

By Mel

February 9, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

Ralph,

I don’t know where you live, but my youngest sister is in elementary school with a lot of hispanics. She is one of five non-hispanics in her class. She has to be taught the majority of her lessons at home because her overworked teacher has to spend most of her time with the non-English speaking hispanic kids, who, because they don’t know the language and we’re too PC to separate them from the other kids until they do, are disruptive because they are bored. My niece has the same problem in middle school.

ANd there are a lot of Americans who don’t work, are lazy, etc. That’s in every society. But they ARE our burden.

Mexico has a ruling class that want to get rid of who they consider undesireable by sending them here. They get a double benefit of getting rid of them and getting the income when it’s sent back to Mexico. I would be willing to consider increasing their numbers legally if Mexico would pay for their share of our services and be responsible for them. Otherwise, why should we be responsible for them all? Where does it end? When the few of us who pay the lion’s share of the taxes completely break? When we all live in communes and no one has more than anyone else? Give me a break. If even one causes a burden, it’s too much. At the very least, we who pay the taxes should have a choice. Right now, we don’t.

By payroll administrator

February 9, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

hey RALPH…

pity you don’t know what you’re talking about. i never said I was rich, never said my CO-WORKERS were rich. i certainly don’t give a rat’s-a** about these rich old white retirees.

for your information, again, because you have NO CLUE what you’re talking about or who you’re talking TO for that matter…

I HAVE worked in the kitchen, I HAVE worked in the landscaping business (7yrs, thanks - AND mostly on golf courses…try finding a girl who does that) before my husband informed me that if i wanted to raise a family, i’d have to do it from an inside job. digging ditches and operating tractors and other heavy machinery isn’t exactly easy on your body, and while i would love to go back out there (SEE, there ARE americans willing to do jobs that hispanics are normally taking…again, a woman no less), i agree with my husband. it’s much better for me to be inside even though i hate it.

and please explain to me how i would work the system, when i’m married and only have 1 dependent?

THINK BEFORE YOU TYPE and STFU.

By Dane

February 9, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

how ‘bout this one, I’m a Honorably Discharged Veteran, right around when the Iraq War started the economy tanked, I was out of work, I sent resume’s everywhere, talked to anybody I could, finally, I had to do something, so I swallowed my pride and went to the Human Resources place in Hall County, it was all Mexican. I waited in line as Mexicans walked up in front of me and broke in line with their buddy, and looking back and smiling about it. I watched as every Mexican in front of me was paired up with a counselor and lead to another room, when I got to the front, they sais I wasn’t illegible for any assistance. that was a heartbreaker.

By Danny

February 9, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

Hey illegal means illegal

Would it not help the situation if the illegals could get driver licenses, then they can get car tags and pay for insurance. Id rather get hit by an illegal with a driver license, insurance and a valid tag.

By Illegal Means Illegal!

February 9, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

Have you heard about all the illegal tags that got sold recently (that were actually, according to the news, actual good, legal tags being sold illegally)? All the illegals were buying these tags up and using them on their cars. Insiders who got ahold of these were making a profit off selling them to the illegals. So once again, we have no way of knowing which cars have legal tags and which ones don’t. A lot of good it will do someone to get a tag number in a hit and run because who knows where the tag came from? Once again, those illegals did not have to get inspections on their cars or pay advalorum tax but just stick that tag on their car and they’re good to go.

By gi

February 9, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this

MY ANCESTORS WERE BROUGHT TO THE UNITED STATES IN CHAINS. WE DID NOT GET THE PRIVILEGE HAVE A CHOICE. I HAVE SEEN CITIES AND SCHOOLS AND NEIGHBORHOOD SLOWLY CHANGED INTO HISPANIC. MANY SCHOOLS IN THE SURROUNDING AREA OF ATLANTA HAVE TOTALLY CHANGED. IT HAS GOTTEN SO BAD!!!! MANY STORES WORKERS CAN NOT SPEAK OR IGNORE TO SPEAK ENGLISH. TAKE A TRIP TO GRADY HOSPITAL AND OR DORAVILLE/CHAMBLEE. IT IS CRAZY. LET’S NOT FORGET “ILLEGAL” IF YA GONNA DO IT FOR THEM, YA NEED TO NOT TO FORGET THE OTHER ILLEGALS ALSO. IT IS NOT FAIR TO EXCLUDE THEM FOR JOBS ALSO. WHERE DOES IT END?

By DavidU

February 9, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

Everyone on both sides of the issue: This is just empty rhetoric, by the politicians and everyone else in the blog. If something really had to be done or needed to be done, it would have happened after 9/11, when the issue of securing the borders was a national topic. But for every Latino immigrant that does something stupid, like like 15 to a bedroom, there are others that all they do is contribute to everyday life in the US and Georgia (they get Tax IDs and pay their income taxes even though there is no promise of fixing their status (residency or citizenship) later on because of it). Latino immigrants like the immigrants that came before them in the 1800’s have “bad apples” in the mix that give a bad name to all Latinos, stop generalizing. Just like the KKK gives a bad name to all white southerners.

By abarne32

February 9, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

DavidU you are exactly right. This is all meaningless rhetoric. The people that benefit from this are the GOVERNMENT, the ones that suffer are us, the citizens and especially the immigrants.

If illegal immigration was so bad for the country, why would the IRS create a way for illegal immigrants to pay taxes without a social security number?? The US GOVERNMENT CREATED TAX IDs FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS! This is encouraging and allowing immigrants to live here without having status.

If illegal immigration was so bad for the country, why would the military create a way for illegal immigrants to enlist in the military without a social security number? THE U.S. GOVERNMENT REQUIRES ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS TO REGISTER WITH SELECTIVE SERVICE!! If illegal immigrants are required to fight and die for our country, why does our country deny them?

PRESIDENT BUSH HIMSELF ADMITTED IN HIS STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS THAT THIS NATION RELIES ON IMMIGRANT LABOR!!! This is the president of our country ADMITTING the truth. Whoever can’t see it is blind.

This article does not include the full scope of this bill. It would also deny education and healthcare to CHILDREN! Including higher education which actually EARNS MONEY for Georgia because the immigrants already have to pay out of state tuition and cannot receive aid from the government! They have to pay out of pocket or receive a scholarship from a private organization because they are an outstanding student!! This bill would deny healthcare, including VACCINES!!! It could cause an epidemic of disease like tuberculosis. This bill puts ALL OF US IN DANGER!!!

These people are not going to leave. This bill won’t make them. It will only punish innocent children and endanger all of us.

You say, “why reward bad behavior” but the majority of illegal immigrants don’t behave badly. They come here for jobs, not handouts. If there were a way to come legally, they would, but the waiting list is too long and some don’t even have the necessary documents!! What you don’t realize is that many immigrants are from rural areas, NOT born in a hospital, do NOT have a birth certificate, and never have the possibility of coming legally because they don’t have the papers! And their children don’t even have a choice whether to come or not. How can you support punishing INNOCENT CHILDREN for the actions of their parents? Anyone with human compassion should understand that this bill is not the answer.

The main thing to remember is that although some of you would love it, this bill will NOT deport anyone. It would NOT fix anything within the system. It would NOT increase border security.

Face it: This problem is too big for the state of Georgia to handle!! It needs to be SOLVED at the Federal level instead of wasting taxpayer time and money for legislators to use this as political bait!!!!!

By James

February 9, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

I’m not quite certain why everyone is discussing the pros and cons of ILLEGAL immigration. By its name, it violates the laws of this country and should therefore be subject to punishment. Do not cloud the issue with race and economics. ILLEGAL immigration is ILLEGAL. Period.

If we’re going to excuse illegal behavior based on the grounds of economic gain, let’s start with the abolishment of anti-trust regulations. Let’s have a free-for-all of capitalistic free markets! Victims of corporate corruption and greed be damned!

Oh but wait…we’re concerned about the victims of corruption and greed. We don’t want some to suffer economic damage while others get rich.

Therefore, we enact LAWS. Laws designed to protect the greater good. And, we’re all asked to abide by those laws.

We have immigration laws. If you don’t agree with them, you should argue for their modification. If you continue disagree and it creates a hardship in your life, argure more or move to another country where those laws are more in line with your beliefs.

The rule of law is required by any civilized society. Selective enforcement only reduces impact of the remaining Code. Murder is illegal…or is that another law that we should selectively enforce?

ILLEGAL is ILLEGAL. Let’s not forget that.

By tee

February 15, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this

Does anyone remember “The fall of the Roman empire” and what happened there? The USA is on track for the same disatster.