My Letter to Senator Lautenberg

5/18/98

Dear Sen. Lautenberg:

I was shocked to watch the roll call vote on S. 1723 on C-Span and to discover that you
actually voted for this legislation.  As a computer professional, I feel that you have directly
threatened my standard of living by voting to allow companies to import foreign workers without
having to make any attempt to hire qualified Americans for those positions.  

This legislation only enables greedy CEO's to enrich themselves at the expense of American
workers like myself.  Importing foreign workers allows companies to drive down salaries.  This
bill creates a docile labor force consisting of foreign workers who cannot quit their jobs for
fear of being deported.  

I hope that when this bill comes out of conference you will reconsider your support and vote
against it.

Sincerely,



Stuart Kirschenbaum

Senator Lautenberg's Reply

June 15, 1998

Dear Mr. Kirschenbaum:

	Thank you for contacting me to express your opposition to
S.1723, legislation which would temporarily increase the number
of visas for skilled workers under the H1-B visa program for the
next five years.

	I understand your concern that this program does not provide
adequate protection for American workers, and your view that the 
shortage of skilled workers in our country has been exaggerated.
As you may know, the Senate approved this legislation on May 18, 
1998, and has referred it to the House Judiciary Committee.  
During consideration of this bill on the Senate floor, I voted
for amendments which, if successful, would have addressed your
concerns.  I am hopeful that, should this legislation be enacted,
the final version of the bill will contain strong worker
protections.

	Please be assured that I will keep your views in mind should 
this legislation come to the Senate floor.

	Again, thanks for your comments.  I appreciate your input.

Sincerely,


Frank R. Lautenberg
United States Senator

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