Kelly Introduces Paperwork Reduction for Farmers and H-2A Modernization Act

Press Release

U.S. Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS), in coordination with U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), has introduced the Paperwork Reduction for Farmers and H-2A Modernization Act. Under current law, the H-2B (non-agricultural) temporary work program is capped at a maximum of 66,000 visas, while the H-2A (agricultural) program does not have a restriction on the number of visas granted.

This legislation works to meet the critical workforce needs for both agricultural and non-agricultural businesses by allowing certain categories of temporary workers under the capped H-2B program to apply through the uncapped H-2A program. The outdated policies of temporary visa programs currently do not allow for certain agriculture-in-nature jobs to apply for an H-2A visa such as the temporary, seasonal workers in the poultry, dairy, livestock, and landscaping industries.

"The Paperwork Reduction for Farmers and H-2A Modernization Act will work to help all businesses in need of temporary employees, especially those in Mississippi's agriculture industry," Rep. Kelly said. "Farmers have a critical need for seasonal workers. With America's unemployment rate near an all-time low, the agricultural industry's need for temporary, seasonal workers is at an all-time high. I am honored to join Senator Paul in cutting through Washington red tape and bringing farmers the help they deserve."

Congressman Trent Kelly represents Mississippi's First Congressional District. He serves as Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel. Trent also serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Small Business. This is his third term.

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