Are Undocumented Workers Returning Home?

Nationwide, the answer seems to be yes. In the Dalton area, it's not clear. There's plenty of anecdotal evidence to suggest some have left. But we don't have any real numbers. The best we can do is wait for the local schools to compile their five-, 10-, and 15-day counts of students and see where they stand.

But if illegal immigrants are leaving, why? Is it the economic downturn and lack of jobs? Is it increased enforcement. Nativists say it's the former and point to a Center for Immigration Studies report.

But Kerry Howley and the Immigration Policy Center are skeptical.