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Chamber Calls on Congress to Protect DREAMers, TPS Holders

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (May 30, 2019)

Contact: Erik Greenfield, Communications Manager, 608-443-1952 (office), 608-669-7884 (cell)

MADISON – In partnership with New American Economy’s Global Talent Chamber Network, the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce is one of 60 chambers from 26 states calling on Congress to pass the Dream and Promise Act, bipartisan legislation that would create permanent protections for DREAMers and those with Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

“The Chamber supports federal immigration reforms that will encourage entrepreneurship, support our growing workforce needs and ensure homegrown talent remains in our community,” said Chamber President Zach Brandon. “The individuals who would benefit from this legislation are pursuing their education here, starting careers and businesses, and contributing to our tax base. Protecting them is the right thing to do for our young people and for our economy.”

There are 1.25 million DREAMers (undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children) eligible for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, and 318,000 immigrants hold TPS protections allowing them to work in the United States. There are approximately 10,500 DACA-eligible individuals in Wisconsin who earn $204.3 million in total income annually and contribute $31.7 million in total taxes annually, $15.3 million of which goes to state and local tax revenue.

See the full letter to congressional leadership here.

About the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce:
The Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business with nearly 1,300 organizations – ranging from one-person shops to corporations with more than 10,000 employees – working to bring the Greater Madison area to its full potential. The Greater Madison region is a leader in innovation. From cutting-edge technologies to distinctive retail shops to inventive services and products, our members vary greatly but are united by the region’s entrepreneurial spirit. More information can be found at madisonbiz.com.

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