Bracero Program 2.0 Act
Summary
The Bracero Program 2.0 Act aims to reform the H-2A worker program by establishing an online portal for employers, reforming wage standards, and creating a portable H-2A visa pilot program. It also expands H-2A eligibility to greenhouse and indoor farm workers. The Act mandates GAO reports on program integrity and worker protections.
Expected Effects
The Act is likely to streamline the H-2A application process for employers and provide more flexibility for H-2A workers. It could also lead to increased reliance on H-2A workers and potential impacts on domestic farmworkers' wages and working conditions. The portable visa program could improve worker mobility but also presents enforcement challenges.
Potential Benefits
- Streamlined application process for employers through an online portal.
- Increased flexibility for H-2A workers through the portable visa pilot program.
- Expanded eligibility to include greenhouse and indoor farm workers.
- Expedited review process for returning H-2A workers.
- Potential for improved matching of workers to available jobs through the online platform.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for downward pressure on wages for domestic farmworkers due to the wage rate provision.
- Possible displacement of domestic workers by H-2A workers.
- Enforcement challenges associated with the portable visa program.
- Risk of exploitation of H-2A workers due to their dependence on employers.
- Potential strain on resources at the Department of Labor and Department of Homeland Security.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act's alignment with the Constitution is primarily related to Congress's power to regulate immigration and commerce (Article I, Section 8). The establishment of the H-2A program and its reforms fall under this purview. However, potential impacts on labor rights and equal protection could raise concerns under the 5th and 14th Amendments if the program is implemented in a discriminatory or exploitative manner.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).