The House Concurrent Resolution No. by Representative Romero calls on the United States Congress to modify the H-2B temporary nonagricultural program to address the labor workforce shortage in Louisiana. The resolution highlights the importance of the H-2B visa program, which allows employers to temporarily hire non-U.S. citizens for nonagricultural work when there are not enough qualified domestic workers available. It notes that the current cap on H-2B visas is set at 66,000 per fiscal year, with a significant demand for these visas, particularly in Louisiana's seafood processing industry, which relies heavily on seasonal labor.
The resolution emphasizes the increasing demand for H-2B workers, citing a 46% rise in demand since 2018 and a significant increase in certified workers. It points out that Louisiana ranks among the top states utilizing the H-2B program and that modifications to the program could help businesses in the state meet their workforce needs. The resolution concludes by urging Congress to take necessary actions to amend the H-2B program to support Louisiana's economy and ensure the continued operation of businesses that depend on this labor source.