Committee adopts amendment and reports resolution backing J‑1, H‑1B and H‑2B visa programs
Summary
The committee adopted an amendment adding H‑2B visas and reported Senate Joint Resolution 28 urging preservation of J‑1 and H‑1B pathways; staff testimony said recent federal fee changes have hindered employer use of H‑1B visas.
Mike Mason, staff to Sen. Lukey Gale Tobin, summarized Senate Joint Resolution 28 as a measure placing the Alaska Legislature on record supporting visa programs such as J‑1 and H‑1B and urging the congressional delegation to protect those pathways. Mason told the committee that changes at the federal level have made it harder for employers to use the H‑1B program.
During the hearing the committee considered Amendment A.1, which adds H‑2B visas to the resolution and updates a named official listed in the resolution. Sen. Merrick explained the amendment and the chair removed his objection; the amendment was adopted. Mason thanked Sen. Merrick for offering the amendment and reiterated the importance of these visas to seasonal work and education opportunities across the state.
Jonathan Schafer of Tazlina testified in support, saying the J‑1 program benefits small communities and provides participants with cultural and educational opportunities. With no further public testimony, Sen. Merrick moved to report SJR 28 as amended; the chair announced the resolution was reported from committee with individual recommendations and the attached fiscal note.
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