SHRM Leads Amicus Brief in Support of J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Programs

​ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 11, 2020 — Today, SHRM (the Society for Human Resource Management), filed amicus curiae briefs in Washington, D.C. and California in support of J-1 visa exchange visitor programs, a U.S. Department of State public diplomacy and cultural exchange initiative which is critical to U.S. national security and economic competitiveness.

The brief was filed in the cases of Gomez v. Trump and National Association of Manufacturers, et al. v. Wolf, both of which challenge the Presidential Proclamation issued on June 22, 2020, restricting entry into the U.S. of holders of various non-immigrant visas. SHRM is greatly concerned that the Proclamation jeopardizes the important role these visa holders play in supporting the national economic recovery.

"Restricting nonimmigrant work visas and cultural exchange programs will place unnecessary economic burdens on companies and make it harder for organizations to access the talent they need," said Emily M. Dickens, SHRM Corporate Secretary, Chief of Staff, & Head, Government Affairs. "Without J-1 exchange visitor programs, many small and large American employers will have to cut services, creating additional job loss scenarios for vulnerable American workers. At a time when we're all focused on ensuring a successful national recovery effort, it is imperative that policy makers act in the best interest of employees, employers, and their communities by providing access to diverse talent."

SHRM has a longstanding commitment to advocate for bipartisan solutions that provide critical, work-authorized talent, protect American workers, and strengthen international relationships. We stand ready to work with the Administration and Congress to advance policies that will bolster the American workforce and create better workplaces.

Media: To schedule an interview, contact Julie Hirschhorn at Julie.Hirschhorn@shrm.org and 703-842-5152.

About SHRM

SHRM, the Society for Human Resource Management, creates better workplaces where employers and employees thrive together. As the voice of all things work, workers and the workplace, SHRM is the foremost expert, convener and thought leader on issues impacting today's evolving workplaces. With 300,000+ HR and business executive members in 165 countries, SHRM impacts the lives of more than 115 million workers and families globally. Learn more at SHRM.org and on Twitter @SHRM.