LETTERS: Fears about new labor rules

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/editorial/outlook/5657508.html

Where were they?

Regarding the front-page article "New labor rules stir area economic fears / Business leaders warn of 10 percent loss in work force" on Friday: I seem to recall that the biggest objection to proposed immigration legislation in Congress was the fact that it allowed a path for citizenship for persons who were illegally in this country. There was such an uproar that lawmakers in Congress were afraid to support the bill because of a backlash from their constituents. Where were these so-called "business leaders" then?

Now, however, when they sense that they will lose money if they must fire illegals working at their businesses, they are in an uproar. I guess one could say that these "business leaders" think that it is OK to have a person whose back is wet, but only if that moisture is perspiration from working in American construction, manufacturing, profes-sional and business services, accommodation, food and other services.

It sounds like a clear case of "having your cake and eating it, too," for our "business leaders."

JOSE RODRIQUEZ
Houston

Worry over Wal-Mart

My greatest concern, among others, is what this is going to do to Wal-Mart?

I believe my concern is well-founded now that Wal-Mart has effectively reduced its major competitors. This could cause them a severe labor shortage if the rules are enforced as projected.

JOHN M. MASSEY
Katy

[rurallib]

1. Mr. Massey sure has his priorities right.

WHy not give Walmart a big direct subsidy? O - we already do don't we?