A Senate bill sponsored by Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet (D) could pave the way for equine workers, both on the backstretch and in the breeding industry, to apply for U.S. citizenship. Bloodhorse.com reports that the bill would allow equine workers to be eligible for H-2A visas rather than H-2B visas; there is an annual cap on H-2B visas, but there is no such limitation on H-2A visas.
Certified Agriculture Workers must work in the industry for two years to be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship, and must complete 10 years total and then another four under provision legal status. Spouses and minor children are also covered.
For the farms, the bill establishes a wage structure that would help owners keep costs down.
Bennet's office reported that it hopes to attach the bill to the omnibus spending bill, expected to be released Dec. 19 and voted on Dec. 23.
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