Read the Compact
The Alabama Compact is an effort to convene and promote a reasonable conversation on in Alabama that could lead to real and lasting federal reform. The Compact brings together leaders and community of diverse backgrounds and politics who are committed to fostering a more reasonable and collaborative approach to immigration policy than exist today. We believe that the growing consequences of a broken immigration system must be addressed in a bipartisan effort that considers the principles outlined in compact.
FEDERAL RESPONSIBILITY
Immigration policy is a federal issue between the U.S. government and other countries. We urge the Alabama congressional delegation to work to enact immigration policy at the federal level that improves our immigration system, keeps our communities safe, and protects our borders.
STRENGTHENING OUR ECONOMY
Alabama is best served by a free market philosophy that maximizes individual freedom and opportunity. Our immigration system must be flexible enough to address the needs of businesses while protecting the interests of workers. This includes a visa system that is both responsive and effective at meeting the demands of our economy, It should also acknowledge the beneficial economic contributions immigrants make as workers, taxpayers, and consumers.
ENSURING OUR NATIONAL SECURITY
We believe that maintaining the safety and security of the United States is an utmost priority. Our immigration system must ensure that protection of our communities and national borders.
FAMILY
Strong families are critical to developing successful individuals and cohesive communities. Our immigration policies, where possible, should prioritize keeping close families together in order to ensure that most supportive home environments for all children across our state.
EFFECTIVE ENFORCEMENT
We support a law enforcement that focuses on safety, targets serious crime, and safeguards witnesses and victims. We further urge a reasonable and predictable regulatory environment that considers the interest of, and unintended consequences to businesses, workers and consumers. Furthermore, the broader reform effort should eventually include a way to accurately, reliable, and affordable, determine who is permitted to work, ensuring an adequate for a growing economy.
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A COMMONSENSE APPROACH
Immigrants are part of our communities across Alabama. We must adopt a commonsense approach to this reality that reflects our values and recognizes the critical role immigration has played in our nation's history and economy. Our immigration policies must provide a sensible path forward for immigrants who are here without legal status, are of good character, and are committed to becoming fully participating of our beloved state of Alabama and the great land of the United States.
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