How “pro-business” are our legislators?
Brent Finnegan -- September 11th, 2008
Virginia Foundation for Research and Economic Education (FREE), a business interest association in Richmond, recently released their report card for all legislators in the state. According to the “powerful business coalition,” Del. Matt Lohr scored a 63 in cumulative business rating, a 56 rating for this year’s session, and an 87% on the 2008 Voter Percentage, which FREE defines as “The percentage of votes cast by the legislator in support of the predominant business position on important business issues…”
Sen. Mark Obenshain scored 66 cumulative, 62 on 2008 business, and got 94% Voter Percentage.
Obenshain might have scored higher, if not for his SB 782, which aimed to crack down on employers of unauthorized immigrants. According to FREE’s report card, his bill was “opposed by Business as introduced; Supported by Business as Amended.”
Here is FREE’s official statement on illegal immigration:
With the introduction of dozens of immigration bills directed at Virginia’s employers, there was the possibility of a clash between the legislature and the business community. Thanks to the willingness of both sides to meet and properly vet the issue, the 2008 General Assembly concluded with lawmakers passing quality legislation that punishes those who break the law while safeguarding employers who act in good faith to comply with federal immigration law.
How convenient. Find me an honest businessman, and he’ll tell you that he can spot phony or suspicious documentation in a minute. He’ll also tell you that if it is all there, he has no worries.
If you know of a business operating without a state license, what should you do? Report them, or ignore it? It is a company that provides a service to their customers and should be licensed and insured – to protect the customer and the business. Any thoughts???