Polls & Research

Americans Prefer Strict Employer Penalties

(Angus Reid Global Scan) - Many adults in the United States believe businesses should be held accountable for the workers they hire, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 63 per cent of respondents believe enacting strict employer penalties is the most effective approach to stop illegal immigration.

Conversely, 16 per cent of respondents prefer deploying National Guard troops to the U.S.-Mexico border, and 13 per cent of respondents suggest building a wall.

In March, the Pew Hispanic Center calculated the number of undocumented immigrants in the United States at somewhere between 11.5 million to 12 million.

On May 15, U.S. president George W. Bush addressed the nation to discuss his immigration proposals. Bush outlined five clear objectives: securing the borders, creating a temporary worker program, holding employers to account for the workers they hire, allowing illegal immigrants "who have roots" in the country to apply for citizenship, and helping newcomers assimilate into American society.

On May 25, the U.S. Senate voted 62-36 to pass an immigration reform bill that places illegal immigrants in three different groups depending on the amount of time they have spent in the U.S. The plan favours persons who have lived in the U.S. for more than five years, who would have the option of becoming citizens in six years after paying penalties and back taxes, learning English, and passing a background check.

Earlier this month, Republican Wisconsin congressman James Sensenbrenner criticized the "roots" concept, saying, "Unfortunately (it) is amnesty, because it gives a lawbreaker a way to become a citizen by paying a $2,000 fine. We shouldn't be selling American citizenship."

Polling Data

Which of these three options is the most effective approach to stop illegal immigration?