During a press conference on May 8, 2024, Lorena Van Assche, an Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce board member, expressed the chamber’s opposition to the Protecting Arizona Against Illegal Immigration Act. Van Assche stated that the act does not make economic sense for the state and could lead to costly litigation if implemented. She also referenced the negative impact that past immigration legislation, such as SB 1070, had on the state’s economy.
The proposed referral aims to expand the E-verify requirement to include industries that were previously exempt, such as construction, agriculture, and hospitality. It would also increase legal penalties for employers who do not comply. However, Van Assche highlighted that E-verify is already a requirement by law and that Arizona already has strong legal statutes in place to address fraudulent behavior related to immigration. The proposal is similar to a bill that was previously vetoed by Governor Katie Hobbs. If approved, it would be presented to voters during the November general elections, bypassing the governor’s veto authority.
The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce opposes the act based on its potential negative economic impact on the state and the existing legal framework already in place to address immigration issues. According to Van Assche, “Expanding E-verify requirements will only further harm our local businesses and communities by increasing compliance costs and creating confusion about employment verification processes.” She urged lawmakers to consider alternative solutions that would address illegal immigration without causing harm to Arizona’s economy or small businesses.
Van Assche also emphasized that past immigration legislation had already harmed Arizona’s economy. For example, SB 1070 caused businesses in Arizona to lose customers due to fear of being targeted by law enforcement agencies for hiring undocumented workers.
In conclusion, Lorena Van Assche expressed her opposition
