Immigration has been made a dirty word by some of our elected leaders. They do this by making the topic an emotional issue. They feel it is necessary to create a scapegoat to blame so the electorate does not blame them for our economic problems.
Labor shortages are driving up wages and driving down production, resulting in higher inflation rates. We must look at the issue of immigration rationally. Our labor force has been predictably declining. Recently, released data indicates there are two positions available for every unemployed person in the U.S. The COVID pandemic has significantly sped up the decline.
This has affected our economy significantly, resulting in shortages in food and durable goods, which in turn has resulted in additional inflation. The cycle will continue until the labor shortage is resolved.
What is the solution? We must change out views and policies regarding immigration. Open up the work visa program, not only for people with technical skills, but also for those who are willing to do jobs that we do not want to do.
I am not advocating just opening the border. Just issue more work visas. If these workers maintain employment and maintain a clean record for 10 years, give them a path to citizenship. If we aren’t more receptive to immigration, I fear our economy is headed toward disaster.
Mike Krill
Easton
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