[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 39 (Thursday, March 5, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E562]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 EXTENDING CERTAIN IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS

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                               speech of

                         HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 4, 2009

  Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, the House's consideration of H.R. 1127, 
legislation to extend certain visas for religious workers and doctors 
serving in underserved areas highlights our broken immigration and visa 
system.
  While R-1 visas and the Conrad 30 J waivers are noble programs there 
are many small businesses in my congressional district that face 
critical shortages of workers because Congress has failed to address 
the H-2B temporary worker visa program.
  Without prompt action by Congress to extend H-2B visa cap relief, 
employers who rely on temporary and seasonal employees face severe 
worker shortages and the looming possibility of business closures in 
2009.
  Workers with H-2B visas provide necessary labor for the seafood, 
tourism, hospitality, and landscape industries, as well as many other 
temporary and non-agricultural jobs in this country. Due to the 
seasonal nature of the work and the structure of the cap, employers 
often face uncertainty and employment shortages during their busiest 
season.
  I urge you to take action to quickly pass the Save Our Small and 
Seasonal Business Act of 2009. H.R. 1136 would address this important 
issue impacting many businesses in my district and across the country. 
Your leadership in this matter is critical in assuring that small and 
seasonal business will be able to successfully navigate the challenging 
times facing our economy.

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