LANSING – State Representative Kate Ebli (D-Monroe) introduced a job-protection plan Wednesday as part of a package to ensure that Michigan jobs go to Michigan residents by cracking down on employers who hire illegal immigrants.
"My top priority as a lawmaker is to create good-paying Michigan jobs for Michigan workers quickly," Ebli said. "Every job that goes to an illegal immigrant is one that is stolen from a hard-working Michigan resident who is trying to make ends meet. It is vital to both create and protect jobs for our workers if we are going to turn Michigan's economy around."
Ebli's plan would prohibit an employer from firing an employee without cause if the employee is replaced by an illegal worker. It also allows those discharged employees to bring a civil action against their former employer.
The package also:
- Prohibits an employer from recruiting, hiring or referring an illegal alien for work in Michigan.
- Bans employers from employing an illegal alien or from recruiting an illegal alien to come to Michigan to be employed.
- Requires state regulatory agencies to revoke or suspend the license of an employer who knowingly employs an illegal alien or encourages one to enter the state for employment.
"This plan sends a simple message to employers who are considering breaking the law," Ebli said. "If you think you're saving money with illegal labor, you will pay a steeper price in the long run. This plan will crack down on the hiring of illegal immigrants and ensure Michigan workers have access to the jobs they are qualified for and deserve."