"60% of ski resorts rely on workers with J-1 visas, and many are now scrambling as they are unable to fill the positions needed. When we shut immigrants out, we hurt our local businesses, our tourism industry, and our economy."
"Employers who hire J-1 visitors may also save up on payroll taxes. When J-1 visitors do not pay Social Security, Medicare or Federal Unemployment taxes, employers do not have to match these taxes. A typical employer who hires 5 Work/Travel J-1 visitors and pays $8/ hour each may save over $2317 in a typical 4-months season."
"a cheap labor pipeline with minimal wage enforcement and exemptions from FICA taxes."
Rep. Brittany Pettersen defended the J-1 visa program, stating that 60% of Colorado ski resorts rely on J-1 visa workers and that restricting such visas harms local businesses, tourism, and the economy. Social-media users criticized the claim as implying Americans cannot fill those roles. Many ski resorts and other industries are owned or managed by private equity firms that increasingly rely on foreign temporary labor. The Institute for Sound Public Policy described the system as a cheap labor pipeline with minimal wage enforcement and FICA exemptions. Employer guidance highlights significant payroll-tax savings. Multiple lawsuits allege coercion, wage theft, poor housing, and trafficking.
Read at The American Conservative
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