Trump Administration OKs More Guest-worker Visas Used by Texas Landscapers and Others

This is a developing story and will be updated.WASHINGTON -- The Trump administration on Monday announced a sizable, one-time boost to a temporary migrant worker program, providing a bit of relief to Texas landscapers and other industries that have clamored for more seasonal help.But the decision hardly ends a fractious immigration debate muddled by President Donald Trump's "American first" push.The U.S. Homeland Security Department said it would increase by 15,000 the number of H-2B visas that are available this year. The visas -- reserved for temporary, low-wage, non-farm workers -- will go to companies who would otherwise suffer permanent "irreparable harm."That approach represents something of a middle road, given that Congress gave the Trump administration the discretion to approve tens of thousands more visas.Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly arrived at his number after determining that "there are not enough U.S. workers who are willing, qualified and able to perform temporary, non-agricultural labor to satisfy the needs of some American businesses," a senior DHS official said.  Continue reading...