Although most are the descendants of immigrants, and most are aware immigrants generate significant benefits for the economy, Americans are deeply divided about immigration. This conflict is
expressed in policy and practice, with business supporting more open immigration and the law making US residence for over ten million people illegal. In addition, many Americans understand
illegal immigrants to be a drain on social services. Gordon (economics, U. of California, San Diego) closely examines the relationship between immigration and public finance policy, showing
recent trends in immigrant v. native demands on public benefits. He offers two solutions: a skills-based immigration policy, which acknowledges the contributions of skilled workers to US
business and the taxes they pay, and a rights-based policy, in which the unskilled earn the right to remain and their employers arrange benefits. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
(booknews.com)
