Business Lobby Gears Up Opposition to Hilton Head Immigration Ordinance

"Several business groups in Beaufort County oppose an ordinance being considered by the County Council that would revoke the business license of any company that knowingly hires illegal immigrants. The groups, which include construction firms, restaurants and hotels, say the ordinance is unconstitutional and could cause legal businesses to close," the Island Packet reports. "Councilwoman Starletta Hairston, who proposed the ordinance two months ago, said she doesn’t think the letter will sway the council when it comes up for a final vote Monday. She said questions about how the proposed law would be enforced are answered in the text of the ordinance and that the county shouldn’t avoid the issue just because the federal government has the authority. Hairston said she doesn’t understand why businesses are opposed to the measure because it will help business owners who compete with companies employing undocumented workers at cheap wages. Some of the businesses opposing the ordinance likely employ undocumented workers, she said."

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