News From Congresswoman
Nydia M. Velázquez
Representing New York's 12th Congressional District - Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens
Ranking Democratic Member, House Small Business Committee

For Immediate Release
November 19, 2003

CONTACT: Wendy Belzer, Kate Davis, 202-225-4038

Velázquez Pushes for Fair Immigration Policies
New visa procedures put small businesses at a competitive disadvantage

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-N.Y.), Ranking Democratic Member of the House Small Business Committee, today highlighted the impact that immigration policies, which were implemented as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, are having on U.S. small businesses - particularly in the manufacturing, tourism and trade industries.

"Today's global marketplace is crucial to the success and strength of the U.S. economy, and it is small businesses that play a large role in international trade," Congresswoman Velázquez said. "However, many are now struggling due to immigration policies implemented as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11. While there is no doubt that our nation's security is of the utmost importance - it is also necessary to recognize that America's borders are entrances for people, goods and services which help drive our economy."

The September 11 terrorist attacks prompted the Department of State (DOS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to implement policies aimed at toughening entry into the United States. Many small businesses in the manufacturing, travel and trade industries are losing clients because of extended visa delays that are pushing them to seek products from U.S. competitors.

The U.S. tourism industry, which is one of the leading retail industries in this country, has experienced significant setbacks due to the stricter immigration laws. Many small firms are already having problems maintaining longstanding business relationships because legitimate travelers are unable to obtain visas. Opportunities are being lost for new business ties overseas while personnel transfers within certain companies are experiencing delays.

Small businesses already face difficulty under the Bush administration's tax and trade policies, and the new immigration policies, although necessary, compound their hardships and put them at an unfair disadvantage. The national security needs of the U.S. should be balanced with our country's economic interests.

"These immigration policies, and the impact they are having on small businesses, must be revisited in order to ensure that we are keeping out those who intend to harm us, while at the same time admitting those individuals who come here to make positive contributions to our economy," Congresswoman Velázquez said.

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