Feb 4, 2022

GCSAA spoke virtually to congressional staff about how tough it is to find workers and how important the H-2B temporary visa program is to address this.

As the spring approaches, seasonal industries, including golf, are having a tough time finding workers in the current labor market. That was the message delivered to congressional staff during a virtual hearing July 28. GCSAA, representatives from other seasonal industries and labor experts spoke virtually to a packed audience about how tough it is to find workers and how important the H-2B temporary visa program is to address this. This was part of GCSAA's ongoing efforts to show the value of this program and to get more visas for the spring.

Speakers at the virtual hearing discussed the merits of the program and the need. Studies have shown that each H-2B worker supports more than four American workers. In industries such as golf, they can be extremely valuable. The presentation also included pictures of H-2B workers at seasonal operations including golf courses to emphasize their vital role.

Thanks to the advocacy efforts of GCSAA and its allies in the H-2B Workforce Coalition, the DHS is taking steps to release an additional 20,000 visas, effective immediately. More information can be found here. While this is welcome news, it’s just the beginning of what is needed. Many superintendents have indicated that they were unable to secure any H-2B workers this year, and they need access to them for jobs that they cannot otherwise fill. On April 1,33,000 visas will come available April 1, but that is not enough. GCSAA will not let go of this message with federal decision-makers until they do what’s right for golf.