Dozens of economic analysts have signed a letter urging President Biden to add a path to citizenship for undocumented people into the COVID-19 relief package.
The letter argues that a recovery and jobs plan should include immigration reform because the pandemic has shown that public health and economic fates are intertwined. The authors say weak spots in the economy affect everyone. And they write that making people citizens would come with local and national benefits.
“It allows experienced workers to advance in their jobs. It helps to fill much needed gaps in our workforce, especially when we look at health care,” said May Mgbolu, who’s assistant director of policy and advocacy at the Arizona Center for Economic Progress.
Mgbolu signed the letter. She said 5% of essential workers in the state are undocumented.
EDITOR'S NOTE: The story has been updated to correct the percentage of undocumented people who are essential workers in Arizona.
