WHEREAS Club 20 supports immigration reform that reinforces economic strength and stability on a state and federal level that will be viable as the American economy and culture continue to evolve; and
WHEREAS Club 20 encourages national immigration policies that serve to protect national security, stimulate the domestic economy and enhance our nation’s image in the world; and
WHEREAS Club 20 members recognize that the growing consequences of a broken immigration system must be addressed in a bi-partisan effort;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Club 20 supports the following principles regarding meaningful immigration reform:
- FEDERAL RESPONSIBILITY
Immigration policy is a federal issue between the U.S. government and other countries. We urge the Colorado congressional delegation to work to enact immigration policy at the federal level that protects our borders, keeps our communities safe and improves our immigration system;
- ENSURING OUR NATIONAL SECURITY
We believe that maintaining the security of the United States is an utmost priority. Our immigration system must ensure the protection of our citizens, communities and national borders from threats both foreign and domestic;
- STRENGTHENING OUR ECONOMY
Colorado is best served by a free-market philosophy that maximizes individual freedom and opportunity. Our immigration system must be flexible enough to address the needs of business while protecting the interests of workers. This includes a visa system that is both responsive and effective at meeting the demands of our economy. It should also acknowledge the beneficial economic contributions immigrants make as workers, taxpayers, consumers and community members;
- FAMILY
Strong families are critical to developing successful individuals and cohesive communities. Our immigration policies, where possible, should prioritize keeping close families together in order to ensure the most supportive home environments for all children across our state;
- EFFECTIVE ENFORCEMENT
We support an enforcement strategy that improves public safety and targets criminal activity. We further urge a reasonable and predictable regulatory environment that considers the interests of, and unintended consequences to businesses, workers and consumers. Furthermore, as part of a broader reform effort, the government must provide an accurate, reliable, and low cost way to determine who is and who is not authorized to work;
- A COMMONSENSE APPROACH
Our immigration policies must provide a sensible path forward for immigrants who are here without legal status, are of good character and are committed to becoming fully participating members of our society and culture. Immigrants are part of our communities across Colorado. We must adopt a commonsense approach to this reality, one that reflects our values and the critical role that immigration has played in our nation’s history and economy; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Club 20 supports efforts to convene and promote a conversation on immigration that could lead to real and lasting federal reform; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Club 20 supports efforts that bring together leaders and community members of diverse backgrounds and politics who are committed to fostering a more rational and collaborative approach to immigration policy than exists today; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Club 20 respectfully requests the opportunity for member involvement in the development of any legislation directed at addressing immigration reform.
Adopted September 7, 2012
Renewed 9/21/19