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Abstract

Throughout the nation's history, illegal immigration has generated considerable debate. Particularly important is the problem of illegal immigration from Mexico. The importance is due to the potential impact on Mexico/United States relations, and the sheer numbers involved. Many people believe that immigrants are primarily responsible for the United State's economic problems. As a result, much attention is being focused on the immigration issue. In order to combat illegal immigration the trend is to toughen up immigration policies and extend the authority of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). One way INS authority is exercised is through "area control operations" known as "factory surveys." Such surveys are INS procedures in which agents arrive unexpectedly at factories or shops where large numbers of illegal aliens are suspected of working. Several agents surround the workplace while others enter and interrogate some or all the workers as to their right to be in the country. If the answers are unsatisfactory or if the worker fails to produce any documentation requested, he is arrested and possibly deported.

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