WILLIAM P. CLEMENTS, JR. GOVERNOR STATE OF TEXAS OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 May 11, 1982 The President The White House Washington, D. C. 20500 My Dear Mr. President: I am disturbed by the reports I have received from Hispanic Leaders in Texas regarding "Operation Jobs" the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) raids. These raids brought into sharp focus the need for expeditious passage of an equitable immigration reform act that must address the humanitarian concerns of the undocumented worker and the Hispanic-American. The undocumented worker augments our U. S. labor force by taking jobs which American citizens show little or no interest in taking. Mexican government officials have stated to me in various meetings that the exodus of these workers from Mexico has caused a serious talent drain. With these points in mind, I have continued to propose a guest worker provision which permits Mexican aliens mobility, and some freedom of choice regarding where and for whom they can work in the United States, but allows them to retain their Mexican citizenship. This would provide them legal status while appreciating their contribution to the American economy. It would differ from the Simpson-Mazzoli Bill which endorses changes in the H-2 Temporary Worker Program that is tantamount to resurrecting the Spector of the old "bracero program." I am unequivocally opposed to this alien-employer contract labor proposal which lends itself to possible exploitation. More importantly, Mr. President, is the effect our immtgration laws have on Hispanic-Americans. Hispanic-Americans are the indirect victims of our ineffective immigration policy. No other ethnic group is subjected to the constant verification of citizenship like the Hispanic-American. The Mexican undocumented worker's illegal status has caused our Hispanic- Americans hardships which must be stopud. Respectfully, William P. Clements, Jr. Governor of Texas WPCJr:gtm