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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Study: Undocumented immigrants contribute hundreds of millions to VA tax coffers

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Wednesday, August 7, 2024   

A new study sheds light on the tax contributions paid by undocumented immigrants. In Virginia, they contribute nearly $700 million to state and local coffers.

The study by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy uses data from the U.S. Census, Bureau of Labor Statistics and other sources.

Freddy Mejia, policy director for the nonprofit Commonwealth Institute, said it is just one way to quantify the effect of the roughly quarter million undocumented immigrants in Virginia.

"Immigrants really strengthen our state," Mejia asserted. "Virginia continues to move forward because of immigrants' economic, social and cultural contributions to each and every one of our communities."

Undocumented immigrants pay sales, property, income and other taxes, yet they cannot access some programs they pay into, including Medicare, Social Security and Unemployment Insurance. The data showed undocumented immigrants would pay an additional $167 million in Virginia taxes if they were granted work authorization.

Mejia pointed out the study highlights barriers for the Commonwealth's immigrant population. For instance, about half of the undocumented children in Virginia do not have health coverage, compared to under 4% of U.S. citizens.

"If we can invest just a portion of that $700 million to health coverage, we can ensure that this next group of workers, of doctors, of lawyers, are able to achieve those dreams and do so with good health and a great education," Mejia urged.


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