MEXICAN GUEST WORKERS FIGHT TO REMAIN IN US

Fourteen Mexican workers who were employed in a quarry in Colorado are hoping to remain in the US.  They were fired earlier this summer after complaining about their living conditions and the employer’s unwillingness to pay them.  The men came to the US on H-2B visas, which allow US employers to use foreign workers to meet temporary needs for unskilled workers.  As part of the visa program, the employer guarantees a certain level of payment and certain working conditions.  The workers were told they would be making an hour, but when they arrived in the US their pay was withheld, and they were housed in conditions the local health director called “atrocious.”

The workers have hired lawyers to help them recover the money they are owed, and possibly to remain in the US.  Meanwhile, county officials are allowing the men to remain, and are even providing them housing.  Attorneys for the employer say the workers were paid, and that their accusations are unfounded. 

While the workers’ visas were employer specific, meaning that they were here without authorization after they were fired, attorneys are arguing that they should not bear the burden of the employer’s actions.  Another quarry  has indicated that it would be happy to hire the men.