A new study by Edgeworth Economics has been released that found that every H-2B worker supports about three to five local U.S. jobs and that areas that have more H-2B workers experience higher wages. The study provides a new comprehensive economic analysis that explores the impacts and realities of the H-2B Visa Program.

According to the H-2B Workforce Coalition press release, traditionally, the H-2B program has allowed businesses to hire foreign national guest workers for seasonal jobs when they are unable to identify and hire domestic workers for these positions. Through this new study, the program has found no evidence of the increase of H-2B Visas issued and a negative impact on the U.S. workforce’s employment and wages. In fact, the study notes that areas with greater H-2B workers saw wages grow 1.6% higher.

GCSAA members (golf course superintendents) provided information for the survey. The program has been used by golf facilities in 40 states.  

GCSAA is a long standing member of the H-2B Workforce Coalition.