FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tucson Metro Chamber Takes a Stance on Proposition 314

Tucson, AZ [August 22, 2024]- The Tucson Metro Chamber Board of Directors has formally voted to oppose Proposition 314, the November ballot measure known as the “Secure the Border Act.”

Among other changes, Prop 314 would authorize state and local law enforcement to enforce deportation orders on individuals entering Arizona from a foreign country at any location other than a lawful port of entry and creates new penalties for selling fentanyl that that results in a person’s death.

“To be clear, the Chamber champions the need for reform of the immigration system that makes it more straightforward for good people seeking opportunity and a better life to enter legally, while also securing our border from bad actors that have perpetuated the devastating impact of fentanyl on our community,” stated Michael Guymon, president and CEO of the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce. "Real immigration reform should address these challenges without overloading our already stretched-thin state and local resources in the way that this proposition would.”

The Chamber joins business groups across the state, and a bipartisan group of law enforcement officials throughout Arizona, in expressing concern not only for an unfunded mandate, but in reality, the double-dipping of both federal and state tax dollars to solve something that is the job of the federal government.

Added Guymon, “Our members remember the many difficult years after SB1070, when a similar attempt to involve state law enforcement resources in federal border policy, resulted in heavy losses to business, reputation, and revenue for Arizona. We will continue to advocate, in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s LIBERTY Campaign, with our congressional delegation for the federal government to address the security and commerce aspects of the border.”

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About the Tucson Metro Chamber

The Tucson Metro Chamber champions an environment where businesses thrive and the community prospers. As a member-based organization, they represent over 1,400 businesses, employing over 160,000 employees in the greater Tucson area.

Contact: Melissa Rosciano, Marketing and Communications | Tucson Metro Chamber
MRosciano@tucsonchamber.org | https://tucsonchamber.org/