Fisher & Phillips LLP - Pointer, Ann Margaret

This letter is written in support of the decision to continue the procedures and requirements currently in effect at least until January 1, 2010, and to suggest that the requirements under these regulations remain in effect for a study period of three (3) years before any significant changes are proposed to be made to the requirements under these current regulations. Farmers, loggers, and other agricultural employers who are dependent on timely availability of workers must be able to plan their businesses, knowing that they can obtain workers and knowing how to budget for the costs of employing their workers. H-2A employers operate lawfully, as do their employees who are lawfully present in the U.S. and who typically return to their home countries at the end of their U.S. employment. These employers and their employees should be encouraged and supported, not burdened to the point jobs, agricultural production, and economic activity are lost.