It appears that Mr. PANETTAS amendment may be approved by this House. but I would caution my colleagues that It poses significant threats to the Integrity of those persons who would be admitted as class "P" guest workers. It also will increase the likelihood that guest workers will extend their stay in this country beyond the authorized date. meaning that this country may continue to be overwhelmed by large numbers of undocumented aliens. The Panetta amendment establishes a guest worker program tailored to fit the needs of growers of perishable crops. It would not replace the H2 program but rather is a supplement to it. The amendment creates a new "P" visa category. with the letter "P" denoting the visa holder as a guest worker authorized to harvest perishable crops. My opposition to this amendment is not predicated upon any desire to subject growers of perishable commodities to hardship. I understand the special problems with which growers of perishable crops must contend. And while the gentlemans amendment does represent a valid attempt to address growers special needs. it fails with respect to its treatment of guest workers and in providing safeguards against its becoming a magnet for illegal immigration. Under the gentlemans amendment. guest workers would be admitted into this country for an 11month period. Rather than placing these guest workers under the employ of a specific grower. guest workers would be admitted into a certain region and would be free to roam within that region. enabling them to follow the progress of the harvest.
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illegal immigration undocumented visa