Wednesday, February 18, 2009

The Affect of Immigration on the Economy

By Mitchel Harper

Is immigration affecting economy? Since the end of World War II, immigration, whether it be legal or illegal, has risen. The population share of people born in other countries is as its highest since the 1930's. It would appear the immigration affecting economy is not as negative as some may think.

Immigrants, 25 years old and younger, coming to the United States, become net taxpayers during their lifetime. This is an example of immigration affecting economy in positive ways. A National Research Study concluded that the U.S. collects $10 billion a year in fiscal benefits from immigrants.

Last year,5.8 percent of the foreign-born population received cash public assistance compared with the 4.5 percent of native U.S. citizens. Is this a negative example of immigration affecting economy? A study determined that, immigrant receive more social services because they are less educated and earn less pay at their jobs. This has had the impact of having more money funded to public education, which you could argue is a positive impact.

Long-run national fiscal impact of immigration may be positiv, but immigration affecting economy at state and local levels could impose considerable costs. Especially in states that attract more immigrants like California. Immigration affecting economy is negative in this aspect.

Information is on this subject is widespread. Most readers will have to make up their own mind after reviewing different fact sources whether immigration affecting economy is bad or good. - 15224

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