Immigration law may ruin crops
October 21, 2011 1:50AM
Updated: November 22, 2011 8:42AM
ONEONTA, Ala. — Potato farmer Keith Smith saw most of his immigrant workers leave after Alabama’s tough immigration law took effect, so he hired Americans. It hasn’t worked out: Most show up late, work slower than seasoned farm hands and are ready to call it a day after lunch or by midafternoon. Some quit after a single day.
Politicians who support the law say over time more unemployed Americans will fill these jobs. They insist it’s too early to consider the law a failure. Smith, for one, isn’t convinced.
“I’ve had people calling me wanting to work,” Smith said. “I haven’t turned any of them down, but they’re not any good. It’s hard work, they just don’t work like the Hispanics with experience.”
Alabama passed its law in June. The agriculture industry suffered the most immediate impact. Farmers said they will have to downsize or let crops die on the vine. Many are already worried about next year. AP
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