The Economic Impact of H-2B Workers

Author: 
Zavodny, Madeline and Tamar Jacoby
Year: 
2010
Month: 
November
Date: 
11/22/2010
Publisher: 
Immigration Works
Publication Location: 
Washington, D.C.
Description: 

Through the H-2B program, employers fill temporary and seasonal positions outside of the agricultural sector with low-skill immigrant workers. Although a small program with only 66,000 H-2B visas available each year, the program plays a critical role in the economy, helping large and small employers to meet their staffing needs. From ski resorts in Colorado, seafood processing in Maryland, and the hospitality industry in Nantucket, workers on H-2B visas support regional industries. Many critics claim the program hurts American workers and leaves foreign workers vulnerable to exploitation. This report argues there is no economic evidence to support these claims, yet provides recommendations for streamlining and improving the program.

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