NALP continues to aggressively advocate for the need to address significant problems in the H-2B guest worker program. We understand the crucial need that H-2B serves for many of our members who rely on a dependable seasonal workforce. In January, NALP staff met with over a dozen legislative offices to discuss H-2B and the immediate need to extend the returning worker exemption for 2017.
In close collaboration with other members of the H-2B Workforce Coalition, our activity is focused on both addressing the issue through the appropriations process and fixing it using stand-alone legislation. At this point, it appears that Congress is hesitant to act before the administration provides a clear indication of where they stand on the issue which most likely will not occur until after the confirmation of the Secretary of Labor and the Attorney General.
Once that takes place, we anticipate that President Trump plans to sign an executive order directing the Department of Homeland Security to conduct extensive reviews of the various foreign worker visa programs. However, at least at this juncture, it appears that the President’s primary focus will be on H-1B. In fact, the draft language of the executive order does not mention H-2B by name. However, we anticipate that things such as e-Verify, employer audits, and other administrative burdens called for under the executive order to effect seasonal employers. For additional information on H-2B, please contact Paul Mendelsohn. Also, watch your inbox for occasional updates and action alerts, your active participation and response on H-2B is an integral part of our advocacy strategy.
