Middle Georgians Weigh in on Immigration Debate

The debate over immigration made its way to Warner Robins Wednesday night, as a Senate Special Committee asked for the public’s input. The committee included the following Democratic State Senators: Doug Stoner, District 6, Gail Davenport, District 44, Jason Carter District 42, and Curt Thompson, District 5, who chaired the discussion.

Dozens of legal and illegal residents were at the forum. The discussion included topics on higher education, the effects of immigrants on businesses, and the overall security of the country.One big issue that was also discussed was the possible implementation of Arizona’s strict immigration policies and the huge costs it would bring to the state.

According to data that was presented at the forum, a copycat system would cost Georgia more than $400 million. State Senator Thompson said that would be around 5% of the State’s budget. 

Mexican native Reyna Alcantar knows first hand how hard it is to gain citizenship and felt it was her civic duty to speak up at Wednesday’s meeting. She said her biggest concern was getting proper documentation, “People who are illegal have certain needs. The main one in my opinion is driver’s licenses.”

The debate remained calm and peaceful as one by one residents voiced their opinions.

The State Senators plan to hold at least four more of these town hall meeting throughout the state. Their next stop is Gainsville.

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