The New Jersey State Assembly passed a bill last week that would grant professional licenses to illegal immigrants.
Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy is expected to sign the bill, according to Fox News, which grants illegal immigrants the ability to obtain professional and occupational licenses in the state in industries such as cosmetology and accounting.
A spokesperson for Murphy said the governor “believes that immigrants are a critical part of the fabric of life in New Jersey, and that they should not face unnecessary barriers as they seek to participate in our society and economy.”
The bill would become law effective immediately if signed by Murphy.
“Our immigrant community has been indispensable throughout this crisis,” Assemblyman Gary Schaer said of the bill, referring to the coronavirus crisis. “By lifting this obstacle we can utilize the abilities of every single resident.”
The Federation for Immigration Reform, however, slammed the vote, claiming it will take job opportunities from legal residents in the state.
“Allowing those in the country illegally to get occupational or professional licenses takes jobs away from American citizens and legal immigrants,” said FAIR State and Local Engagement Director Shari Randall. “Already there are more than 1.3 million unemployed individuals in New Jersey who are suffering as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic and lockdowns.”
“Providing occupational or professional licenses to those in the country illegally incentivizes more illegal immigration. With high unemployment, the legislative focus should have been targeted to unemployed citizens and legal immigrants in New Jersey who desperately need to go back to work, instead of encouraging more illegal immigration,” Randall continued. “Under 8 U.S.C. § 1621 illegal aliens are precluded from receiving commercial and professional licenses. Illegal aliens have no legal right to remain in the United States and are prohibited from being employed.”
