The Denver Post is reporting that a conflict has developed between Rep. Tom Tancredo, R-CO. and First Data Corp. over the public policy issue of immigration in Colorado. Tancredo represents the 6^th Congressional District of Littleton where First Data's corporate offices are located.

The dispute arose after Tancredo proposed taxing immigrant funds sent to family and friends outside the U.S. - sums that add up to billions of dollars each year. First Data, which earns billions of dollars a year from its International Western Union money transfer business, viewed this action as an attempt to damage this portion of their business. Tancredo countered this by saying his intent was not to purposely hurt First Data's bottom line. In place of the taxation proposal, he recommended the offset of U.S. foreign aid by the money sent overseas.

According to Charlie Fote, chief executive of First Data, the company has stepped into the forum of shaping public policy because the voices of a large portion of their client base (immigrants) were not being heard. Other steps the company has taken are:

• Forming a political action committee that is funding pro-immigration candidates.

• First Data Empowerment Fund - $10 million available to help immigrant communities as well as to promote "enlightened" immigration discussions.

• Fote personally hosting a series of immigration reform meetings across the country.

• Assisting Latino entrepreneurs and teaching families abroad how to leverage funds received from family members in the U.S.

The efforts by First Data have been applauded by immigrant groups who point out that this corporation is the only Fortune 500 company willing to take a public stand on the topic of immigration reform. But the shareholders, as well as people who agree with Rep. Tancredo's viewpoint, could reject the company's support of this issue.