A 40percent failure rate at DOL does not inspire confidence in the status quo. In fact, as a member of the Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee, I think there's some additional oversight due in this area. In Sight Reforming H-2A is the most humane alternative, for both workers and farmers. We want and need a stable, predictable, legal work force in American agriculture. Willing American workers deserve a system that puts them first in line for available jobs with fair, market wages.
American consumers deserve a safe, stable, domestic supply of food.
American citizens and taxpayers deserve secure borders and a government that works. Domestic workers should be given preference. The job bank should verify the worker's legal status. If domestic workers are not available, using the job bank should qualify the farmer for expedited approval for hiring H-2A workers. We need to make H-2A more flexible and economical, while maintaining basic worker protections.