immigration

Some politicians are responsible for stoking the myth that immigrants, especially Mexicans, are causing crime waves according to a new study by Harvard sociologist
Robert Sampson. His study shows that rising immigration, especially from Mexico, does not drive up crime rates. In fact, the opposite is true: first generation Mexican-Americans are the least likely to commit crimes.

Here are some facts that should surprise the Oregon Legislature which just let the myths of immigrant crime change its thinking on issuing drivers’ licenses.

Public safety should not be compromised by new license requirements

The Oregon legislature will convene in a special session next month as a prelude to asking Oregon voters for the privilege of meeting in annual sessions.

One of the bills legislators will consider is a bill to place citizenship requirements on obtaining a driver's license.

I have a friend who hates scotch broom. This is an invasive species from the east that prevents forests from being reseeded after timber harvesting, and costs Oregon $47 million per year in lost revenue.

Scotch broom is rather pretty. It was, after all, introduced to Oregon as an ornamental garden plant by early settlers from the east coast.

More than 3,000 supporters of immigrant rights gathered for several hours today, in protest of an interim Transportation Committee hearing on legislation that will require proof of legal residence before obtaining a driver's license in Oregon.

The commitee room was filled to capacity, and 2 televisions were set up in overflow rooms that were also filled to capacity. More than 200 people signed up to give testimony, including people who were unable to testify at a previous hearing.