The American agriculture industry relies on foreign workers, especially at harvest time. A group of Democrats has introduced legislation that would give farm workers some protection from possible deportation. The bill is called the Agricultural Worker Program Act of 2017 (Senate Bill 1034). It would protect undocumented workers from deportation if they can prove a history of working in American agriculture.
The bill may also provide them a path to long-term residence and citizenship. Workers that can prove 100 days of employment in American agriculture over the previous two years can apply for a blue card, which grants temporary residency and authorization to work, pending background checks. A blue cardholder that meets more stringent requirements may apply for a green card. Those who hold green cards for five years and meet other requirements may eventually apply for full citizenship.
Source: NAFB News Service