Just in time for peak season, Maine to get 15,000 workers
Homeland Security authorized 15,000 H2B visas, allowing foreign workers to legally work in Maine.
Maine Restaurant Association and Maine Innkeepers Association said Monday that the workers are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, setting off a frenzy of pent-up demand. Workers will be able to help with the remainder of the peak summer season and shoulder season, which extends through Columbus Day weekend.
“This action is certainly welcome, however it will not recover the losses that many hospitality businesses have incurred so far this season,” said Steve Hewins, president and CEO of the Maine Restaurant and Maine Innkeepers Associations.
Monday’s action increases the temporary foreign workforce from 66,000 to 81,000.
An earlier cap on foreign workers was reached on March 13, which was too early from some hotels, restaurants and inns to line up summer help.
“There is no set amount of H2B workers allocated to Maine, so we are advising our members to apply immediately as the department is issuing visas on a first come, first served basis,” said Hewins.
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