Good article in yesterday's Journal and how some states are trying to reverse the flow of immigration (sub req):
South Dakota isn't for everyone. So when the state crafted a program to attract new workers, it targeted people already familiar with its freezing winters and open spaces: the thousands of South Dakotans who leave every year.
The result is "Dakota Roots," a year-old job-placement service that matches expatriate South Dakotans with companies that need workers.
Across the country, in an effort to repopulate declining work forces, several states are going after former residents. Last fall, North Dakota launched a program called "Experience ND" with an event in St. Paul, Minn. Vermont has "PursueVT." Former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack organized and attended receptions around the country for Iowa college grads who moved away.
Notice a pattern here?
Many of these programs use college alumni lists to reach out to former residents. The Internet and social-networking sites like Facebook have made tracking down grads easier. In addition, expatriates tend not to stray far from their states of origin and are inclined to cluster together. People who leave the Great Plains states often go to Minneapolis.
Bingo. The only surprise is that Wisconsin wasn't mentioned. The Badger State has sent more than its share of economic refugees in search of a better life here as well.
While deporation would be the most desirable option, I understand that it's not feasible. However, programs such as this are to be applauded. Combined with a policy that secures our borders and encourages attrition within the existing immigrant community and I think we can finally get a handle on the immigration problem here in Minnesota.
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