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ETA News Release: [11/16/2004]
Contact Name: Lorette
Post
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676 or x3984
New Labor Department Centers Will Cut Backlogs
In Foreign Labor Certification Program
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the
opening of two backlog elimination centers to expedite the processing
of permanent foreign labor certification applications. The centers, located
in Philadelphia and Dallas, will handle the processing of approximately
310,000 backlogged applications over the next two years.
"The establishment of these centers reflects the President's determination
to make government operations more timely, efficient and effective," said
Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "Reducing the backlog will help us
better serve the needs of workers and employers and ensure the efficient
and proper handling of their applications."
Changes made to the Immigration and Nationality Act over the past several
years have led to a dramatic increase in applications for alien certification
for permanent employment. The Department of Labor estimates that all but
about 60,000 new applications are the result of statutory revisions.
The Permanent Labor Certification Program processes employer requests
for foreign workers when U.S. workers are not available, willing, and
able to fill job openings. The new centers will coordinate with state
workforce agencies and DOL's Employment and Training Administration Division
of Foreign Labor Certification to shrink the backlog.
"We have important responsibilities first and foremost to ensure American
workers know about and can access job openings. When no U.S. workers are
available for positions offered by businesses, we then assist employers
who must continue competing in today's global economy," said Assistant
Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco.
Once the Department of Labor issues a permanent labor certification,
an employer must petition the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to
complete the visa approval process.
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