H-2B Visa Increase to Propel Travel Industry and Foster Economic Growth

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Tori Emerson Barnes, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy at the U.S. Travel Association, released a statement in response to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s announcement of an additional 65,000 H-2B temporary worker visas for FY24.

After sustained efforts from the U.S. Travel Association, the release of these extra H-2B visas, which came well in advance of the peak travel season, will offer a much-needed boost to an industry grappling with a workforce shortage of over one million vacant positions.

He further said, “While this is a step forward in alleviating workforce pressures, there are 10 million job openings across the U.S., underscoring that there are not enough U.S. job seekers to meet demand. A clear need exists to permanently expand the H-2B program, particularly to support the small and seasonal businesses that depend on temporary workers.

U.S. Travel expresses gratitude to the Department of Homeland Security for issuing the additional H-2B visas and urges lawmakers to promptly explore bipartisan solutions to permanently expand this program.

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