House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA) has introduced the Agricultural Guestworker Act of 2017, creating an H-2C visa program that will allow American farmers, ranchers, producers, packers and processors access to a legal and stable supply of workers. The National Turkey Federation (NTF), National Chicken Council (NCC) and North American Meat Institute (NAMI) commend the Chairman for his leadership and introduction of this legislation and are encouraged by this important step to help ensure a reliable workforce for the meat and poultry industry.
“With today’s workforce shortages, access to a pool of legal immigrant workers through a viable visa program is critical to the turkey industry and the long-term success of the U.S. economy. We look forward to working with the Chairman and Congress to pass the legislation,” said Joel Brandenberger, President of the National Turkey Federation.