San Diego could see more money and law enforcement agents with a proposed measure in Congress. But employers could also face stricter punishments for hiring illegal immigrants. Jodi Breisler reports from Capitol Hill.
San Diego Republican Brian Bilbray is sponsoring border security and employment verification legislation with over forty Democrats. It would add thousands more border patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.
Bilbray says it will also force employers to use computer verification checks on their workers.
Bilbray : There are already existing programs that employers may be able to tap into, to make sure we divide those people from those who may accidentally hire illegals, to those who are purposely profiteering from the exploitation of illegal labor.
Some San Diego employers say illegal immigrants keep farms and landscaping businesses running. Even though this bipartisan bill is being introduced in the House, none of the leadership has signaled support yet.
From Washington, I'm Jodi Breisler for KPBS Radio.
