Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Urges Voters to Reject Immigration Referral: Protecting Arizona’s Economy and Legal Framework from Overreach

On May 8, 2024, Lorena Van Assche, an Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce board member, spoke out against the Protecting Arizona Against Illegal Immigration Act during a press conference. Van Assche emphasized that the act would not be economically beneficial for the state and could lead to costly litigation if implemented. She also highlighted the negative impact that past immigration legislation, such as SB 1070, had on the state’s economy.

Van Assche pointed out that E-verify is already a requirement by law in Arizona and that the state has strong legal statutes in place to address fraudulent behavior related to immigration. The proposed referral would 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.

The proposal is similar to a bill that was previously vetoed by Governor Katie Hobbs. If approved by voters during the November general elections, it would bypass the governor’s veto authority and become law. The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce opposes the act due to its potential negative economic impact on the state and the existing legal framework already in place to address immigration issues.