On February 21, 2012, the Department of Labor published a final rule
that amends certain H-2B regulations. The rule changes the process by
which certification of temporary employment of non-agricultural
nonimmigrant workers. This rule additionally creates regulations that
provide enhanced enforcement of employers that fail to meet their
obligations. Finally, changes have been made to Form ETA 9142, the
Application for Temporary Employment Certification. This final rule will
become effective on April 23, 2012.
In order to ensure public understanding of these substantial changes to
the H-2B nonimmigrant program, the Department of Labor is holding a
series of webinars and a public briefing, in which they will educate
stakeholders, program users and others of the changes to the H-2B
program. The sessions will take place in March and early April. More
information can be found at the Department of Labor website.