Cheaper to keep ‘em

Dear Editor:

After reading the article in The Morgan Messenger last week concerning the workers at the courthouse construction site, I searched the internet concerning illegal immigrants’ work status and found that a fake ID package, including a green card and a Social Security card, is available on street corners in immigrant neighborhoods. It provides cover for employers, who, if asked, can say that they believe all their workers are legal.

Under current law, if the Social Security Administration or the Internal Revenue Service find multiple people using the same Social Security number, the agencies send letters informing employers of possible errors.

The IRS can fine employers $50 for each inaccurate number filed, a punishment that companies often dismiss as just another cost of doing business.

Rex Matts
Berkeley Springs