Wed Sep 18 19:27:00 UTC 2024: ## Nebraska Alliance Calls for Immigration Reform, Citing Workforce Shortages and Economic Impact
**Lincoln, NE** – A new, broad coalition of over 60 Nebraska organizations representing business, labor, agriculture, healthcare, and more, has come together to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform. The Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities argues that the current immigration system is outdated and harms both Nebraska’s economy and its communities.
“The prosperity of all Nebraskans depends on immigration,” stated Denise Bowyer of Omaha Together One Community, highlighting the workforce strain felt across various sectors. Businesses, from healthcare to agriculture, are struggling to fill open positions, impacting services and potentially hindering growth.
The alliance’s call for reform focuses on expanding legal immigration programs and creating pathways to permanent residency for undocumented Nebraskans already contributing to the state.
“We see the help wanted signs, and we see the risk that good operations will close because they simply can’t find enough people,” Bowyer added.
Several speakers, including business leaders and representatives of immigrant communities, emphasized the urgency of reform. Laura Field of the Nebraska Cattlemen highlighted the shortage of workers in beef production, jeopardizing a key industry.
Itzel Lopez, a business owner and CEO of the Latino Economic Development Council, spoke about the precarious situation of “Dreamers,” undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, who face the constant threat of deportation despite their contributions.
The alliance emphasizes the vital role immigrants play in the state’s economic growth and demographics. Recent census data shows the Latino population fueling over three-quarters of Nebraska’s population growth.
“This workforce issue we have now may be just the tip of the iceberg,” said Bryan Slone, CEO of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “With millions of baby boomers retiring nationally each year, that challenge will only grow.”
The alliance also highlights the significant tax contributions of immigrants, including $113 million in state and local taxes paid by undocumented immigrants.
The alliance’s call for reform comes amidst a heated national debate on immigration. While the alliance advocates for a more inclusive and workable system, other voices call for stricter measures.
The Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities aims to work with state and federal policymakers to achieve a more equitable and sustainable immigration system, acknowledging the historical and economic significance of immigration in the state’s development.
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