Labor force shortages have adversely affected many industries in New Jersey. Although an increase in the number of permanent employment visas might be one solution, another important strategy is to open up more legal opportunities for foreign-born people to do temporary or seasonal work.

Throughout American history, many foreigners -- not willing to leave their home countries permanently -- have shown a preference for this kind of work. At the same time, many industries in the U.S., especially agriculture, meatpacking, dairy farming, travel and tourism, landscaping, construction, and the restaurant industries, are often dependent on this type of labor.

In this special program, we will carefully examine current admission numbers for temporary foreign workers, whether existing programs meet the needs of employers, whether workers themselves are treated fairly, and what can be done to create win-win situations for both employers and migrants, as well as for the economy as a whole.