We are a nation of immigrants but we are also a nation of laws. It is vitally important that the United States maintains its sovereignty through the process of legal immigration.

Nikki has twice co-sponsored legislation that represents the toughest

standard of immigration enforcement on the books nation-wide.  In 2007,

H4400 was introduced and provided for such programs as E-verify and expanded

the ability for state and local law enforcement to question, detain, and

transport suspected illegal aliens and traffickers.

Unfortunately, there have been two limitations on the success of immigration

reform efforts in South Carolina.  First, laws are nothing without funding

for the programs they create.  The South Carolina legislature patted itself

on the back for passing, at the time, the toughest immigration law in the

nation, and then followed that effort up with insufficient funding for

training and enforcement.  Second, ultimate disposition of illegal

immigrants is the responsibility of the federal government, and outside of

South Carolina’s enforcement purview.

As governor, Nikki will continue to push for enforcement of immigration

laws, including the deportation of illegal immigrants.  Further, illegal

immigration into South Carolina will not stop if businesses still have

incentives to employ illegal immigrants.  Participation in E-verify and

stiff penalties for businesses and individuals that further illegal

immigration and employment in South Carolina will hit violators in the

pocketbook.  Only then will the employment of illegal immigrants curtail,

and send a message to illegal immigrants that South Carolina will not be the

destination of choice.