The Burden of Illegal Immigrants and Illegal ImmigrationThe United States was formed by the immigration of many people from all over the world. Americans take pride in knowing that we are a people composed of broad ethnic and cultural backgrounds. However, at present, the flow of illegal immigration, as well as a large influx of other legal immigrants, is straining our country of "congregated masses." Legal immigration to the United States can be easily managed and is welcomed by most Americans. However, the flow of illegal immigrants, particularly from Mexico, must be stemmed, due to the strain it places on government (at the local, state and federal level), as well as the general population. Illegal immigrants cost the United States more than $24 billion a year in taxpayer money (National Review 12/13/93). Something must be done to reduce the flow of illegal immigration to the United States. This paper will focus on the problems caused by illegal immigration and possible solutions to this problem. The United States admits more than 800,000 legal immigrants per year, and at least 200,000 additional illegal immigrants also settle permanently (National Review 12.13. 93). This figure may also be bolstered by “commuter” immigrants, that is, illegal immigrants who cross the border for a period of time to take low-paying, labor-intensive jobs. These immigrants create one of the biggest burdens facing the United States government today, unemployment. Competing for jobs with Native Americans, immigrants not only use up valuable government resources from welfare and other programs, but they also increase unemployment rates. . It is true that the jobs held by immigrants...... middle of paper ...... e number of immigration and naturalization agents as well as the addition of increased fines for employers with illegal workers. Without these or other solutions, the loss of money and jobs will continue. If the loss of these resources continues, the United States could become the land of “closed doors,” ending the dreams of many legal immigrants and closing the books on the most open and free country in the world. Works Cited Borjas, George J. "Tired, Poor, A Welfare. National Review, December 13, 1993. Fierman, Jaclyn. “Is Immigration Hurting the United States? Fortune August 9, 1993. Francese, Peter." An Aging America Needs Foreign Blood." Wall Street Journal, March 27, 1990. Internet, "Workplace Laws Indequate." AP March 3, 1995 clari.news.immigration. Kuttner, Robert. "Illegal Immigration: A National ID Card would it be useful? » August Business Week 26, 1991.