Governor's Column - August 31, 2007
by Governor Matt Blunt
Supporting Missouri's Labor Force
On Labor Day we celebrate the achievements of American workers and their dedication to strengthening our economy. As we celebrate Labor Day I want to thank all Missouri workers for their commitment to spurring economic growth in our state.
Government does not create jobs but entrepreneurs do. Believing in the American dream is about believing in the value of work and recognizing that our country did not become the greatest in the world by luck, but because we have a free economy that allows Americans to work hard, encourages people to innovate, allows them to invest what they earn and create jobs and economic opportunities.
Even though government does not create jobs, it can and should do all it can to lay a foundation for job creation and economic growth. At the state level, it also sometimes means creating responsible incentives for business expansion in Missouri to be more competitive than other states. When we create these incentives, we must ensure they are competitive and carefully designed to support high quality, family supporting jobs. Laying a solid foundation and making strategic investments to cultivate quality jobs will lead to increased opportunity for everyone. And that is precisely what I have tried to do as your governor. Missourians have reacted by adding nearly 85,000 jobs to our state's economy.
As we celebrate the American workforce on Labor Day, we celebrate our history and heritage as workers and laborers. Many of our ancestors came to this country with the hope of a better life for themselves and their families. It is true that we are a nation of immigrants, but we are also a nation of laws. American workers are required to comply with our laws as citizens, business owners and employees and these laws apply to everyone.
The United States has been and can be a nation of laws that supports lawful immigration. But to support our American workforce, we must stop the flow of illegal immigration into our country while welcoming those who choose to enter our country legally. Illegal immigration not only threatens our jobs but the safety and security of our families and friends. Washington has failed to address this important issue and it has been left up to the states to take action.
I recently outlined new directives that will assist Missouri in combating illegal immigration. I have directed all state law enforcement agencies to immediately take the steps necessary to verify the immigration status of every criminal presented for incarceration. Missouri's criminal justice system must never allow dangerous illegal immigrants to go back onto our streets. I have also taken significant steps to shield taxpayers' money from supporting building projects that employ illegal workers.
We will continue to support and welcome lawful immigrants into Missouri's workforce. But governments at all levels need to be mindful of the challenges that come with illegal immigration. We need a system that protects the American worker and their family and friend's safety and security.
From government that lays the groundwork, to the entrepreneurs who move our economy forward, Missouri workers have responded to our efforts to create quality, family supporting jobs. By increasing opportunity, businesses and entrepreneurs make it easier for all Missourians to fulfill their highest potential and live the American dream.