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Proposal:BARN Act

This proposal is archived and closed to further debate. It was introduced in the 116th Congress, which has concluded, and the bill was not enacted into law.
Geographic Scope
National

Description

Better Agriculture Resources Now Act or the BARN Act

This bill revises the H-2A visa program for temporary nonimmigrant agricultural workers. It moves administration of the program from the Department of Labor to the Department of Agriculture, and eliminates the requirement that employers hire any qualified U.S. applicants until 50% of the time period of the H-2A worker's contract has elapsed.

The bill also revises requirements for employer-provided housing or housing allowances for H-2A workers, including standards for such accommodations. The employer shall request an inspection of the housing to certify that it meets the required standards.

Aliens admittted as H2-A workers who overstay their visas are barred from the program for five years. Aliens admitted on the basis of fraud or who commit certain crimes are barred permanently. Employers who knowingly hire H-2A workers who overstay their visas or employers who engage in fraud or misrepresentation shall be barred from the program.

Bill Title

BARN Act

Linked Goals

Steps

  • 2019-01-03: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship.
  • 2019-01-03: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
  • 2019-01-03: Introduced in House
  • 2019-01-03: Introduced in House

Projected Outcome

A more informed proposal or public response aligned with the Promote General Welfare goal.