MARCH 2008: AROUND THE STATE
Groups tackle immigration
SALEM
A coalition that includes nursery, restaurant, wine, dairy,
wheat and homebuilders associations, the Hispanic Metro Chamber
of Commerce, the Oregon Business Association and tourism
industry groups has been formed to address growing concerns
among business and agriculture interests over immigration
issues. The Oregon Essential Worker Immigration Coalition,
launched in February, is concerned about labor shortage and
will advocate, among other issues, for some type of guest
worker program. “We want a legal, willing
workforce,” says Jeff Stone, co-chair of the coalition
and director of government relations for the Oregon Association
of Nurseries. Bill Perry of the Oregon Restaurant Association
also co-chairs.
Have an opinion? E-mail feedback@oregonbusiness.com
