H-2A

The following advisory was released on Nov. 4, 2015 by the Employment Development Department (EDD) of the State of California for distribution to H-2A employers:

CALIFORNIA H-2A PROGRAM ADVISORY

RECRUITER IN JOCOTEPEC, JALISCO, MEXICO CHARGING $450.00 DOLLAR FEE FOR WORKSHOP TO SECURE WORK IN THE UNITED STATES UNDER THE H-2A PROGRAM

For years, agricultural workers in the United States have experienced serious health risks related to the use of pesticides in the fields where they work. Studies have revealed links between pesticide exposure and diverse illnesses including cancer, bronchitis and asthma. Exposure is especially harmful for children, young people and pregnant women.

Durante años, las y los trabajadores agrícolas en los Estados Unidos han sufrido serios problemas de salud relacionados con el uso de pesticidas en los campos donde trabajan. Estudios han revelado vínculos entre la exposición a pesticidas y diversas enfermedades incluyendo cáncer, bronquitis y asma.

A new report published on March 6, 2015, by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) evaluates the H-2A and H-2B visa programs, finding that workers lack adequate protections. The report, H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs: Increased Protections Needed for Foreign Workers, found that workers face considerable vulnerabilities during labor recruitment. The GAO was mandated by U.S. Congress to study the labor recruitment of H-2 workers.