Retailers disappointed in lack of progress on immigration reform

"One of the fundamental strengths of the U.S. economy is its diverse workforce, and fostering that strength is critical to sustained economic growth."

David French
Senior Vice President for Government Relations

WASHINGTON — The National Retail Federation issued the following statement from Senior Vice President for Government Relations David French after a vote on “compromise” immigration legislation failed today in the House.

“We are disappointed by the lack of progress in Congress on protecting Dreamers and addressing the nation’s broader immigration challenges. One of the fundamental strengths of the U.S. economy is its diverse workforce, and fostering that strength is critical to sustained economic growth.

“Although this legislation is not perfect and represents only one piece of the puzzle, the ongoing gridlock surrounding immigration reform is concerning. At a time when millions of American jobs remain unfilled and employers struggle to find skilled workers, both parties must come together to deliver real solutions and work toward more comprehensive reform.”

About NRF
The National Retail Federation is the world’s largest retail trade association. Based in Washington, D.C., NRF represents discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.