Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

AFL-CIO wants alternative to guest-worker program

The AFL-CIO calls the nation's immigration policies outdated. The union proposed a plan today in San Diego that would allow foreign workers to become residents. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

The AFL-CIO calls the nation's immigration policies outdated. The union proposed a plan today in San Diego that would allow foreign workers to become residents.

KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has more

The union wants Congress to overhaul current immigration laws. In addition, union officials say guest-worker programs are bad public policy. The programs allow foreign citizens to temporarily live and work in the U.S.

Advertisement

But Union Spokeswoman Linda Chavez-Thompson is adamant foreign workers must have the chance to become permanent residents.

Chavez-Thompson: "We believe there is absolutely no good reason why any immigrant who comes to this country prepared to work, to pay taxes and to abide by our laws and rules, should be relegated to this oppressive, second-class guest-worker status."

Chavez-Thompson says guest-workers are not immigrants, but more like indentured
servants. The union also criticized a new Senate bill for proposing a temporary guest-worker program.

Ed Joyce, KPBS News.

Fact-based local news is essential

KPBS keeps you informed with local stories you need to know about — with no paywall. Our news is free for everyone because people like you help fund it.

Without federal funding, community support is our lifeline.
Make a gift to protect the future of KPBS.