A resolution to urge the United States federal government to take action to expand pathways for legal immigration, help Michigan fill legal immigrant positions, and increase access to nonimmigrant work visas.
By advocating for expanded access to legal immigration channels, the bill aims to provide farmers with a more stable and reliable workforce. Currently, the H-2A visa program, which permits employers to bring in nonimmigrant workers, has seen a steady increase in applications—157 percent just in the last five years. However, the existing program is criticized for its flaws, including high turnover rates due to visa renewals and associated risks of worker exploitation and abuse. HR0066 seeks to remedy such issues, which could lead to a more consistent workforce that benefits both employers and employees.
HR0066 is a resolution aimed at urging the federal government to enhance pathways for legal immigration and increase access to nonimmigrant work visas, specifically targeting the agricultural sector in Michigan. This resolution emphasizes the critical importance of migrant and seasonal farm workers, outlining that approximately 46,000 are employed during peak seasons to support Michigan's agricultural economy. The bill seeks to address the acute labor shortages faced by farmers who rely significantly on the H-2A visa program to hire foreign workers temporarily for agricultural jobs.
The resolution recognizes that while the H-2A visa program serves a crucial function in filling labor gaps, it has significant shortcomings. These issues include workers being subjected to high fees, poor working conditions, and a lack of legal leverage to protect their rights. Supporters argue that improving immigration pathways would alleviate many of these problems, allowing for greater workforce stability and enhanced protection for rights. Nevertheless, there may be opposition from groups concerned about the implications of expanding visa programs and the potential competition with domestic workers.