iMarch For Immigration Pt 2

iMarch For Immigration Pt 2

Bob Larson
Bob Larson
With Today's Fruit Grower Report, I'm Bob Larson. We told you yesterday about the iMarch for Immigration, hosted by New American Economy, supporting immigration reform.

The Washington Growers League's Mike Gempler says it's something they've been working on for a long time, but there are several reasons to do it now starting with DACA ...

MIKE GEMPLER ... "So, they're all related to each other, of course, but the ability of the DACA kids to stay here without the fear of enforcement action taken against them, technically runs out, or begins to run out in March. But, the ability of Congress to do something about it and have it in place by March pretty much runs out by the end of the year."

Gempler says they've got Congressional support from the local talent ...

MIKE GEMPLER ... "So, that is what's happening in Congress, you know, Congressmen Newhouse and Reichert are leaders in that effort. So, I think that's a big part of it that people working on immigration issues have gathered together and selected a day that will serve that purpose as well as provide a platform for addressing the larger immigration issue."

And just how optimistic is he?

MIKE GEMPLER ... "I'm pretty optimistic that there will be a push for a DACA solution with some other elements included just because of the broad support. I mean, it's 86% of the country, according the surveys I've seen, of voters are in favor of passing DACA and I think Congress recognizes that."

If you're wondering, there are over 28,000 DACA-eligible recipients in Washington state, with 91.5% of those 16 and over employed, earning more than $503-million dollars annually.

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