NEWS CONTACTS: Scot Montrey (202) 637-3099 Sandy Boyd (202) 637-3133 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 4, 2004

ABLI URGES CONGRESS TO PROTECT FLEXIBILITY IN EMPLOYEE TRANSFERS WHILE STRICLY UPHOLDING IMMIGRATION LAW

L Visa Program is 'Critical Tool for US-Based Multinational Companies'

Washington, D.C., February 4, 2004 - American Business for Legal Immigration today urged the House of Representatives to move cautiously in reviewing non-immigrant visa programs so as to not unnecessarily hinder American-based companies' ability to compete in the global economy.

"To stay competitive, multinational companies must have the ability to transfer managers, executives and employees with specialized knowledge," said National Association of Manufacturers Human Resources Policy Vice President and ABLI Chair Sandy Boyd, as the House International Relations Committee held a hearing on the "L Visa" program Wednesday.

The "L Visa" category was created by Congress in 1970 to enable US multinational companies to transfer employees with specific managerial experience and specialized skills from abroad to the United States for short-term assignments. Intra-company transferees have historically made significant contributions to the growth and prosperity of American companies and their overseas subsidiaries or affiliates. "The expertise shared and the experiences gained through these international assignments are integral to developing talent, growing markets and generally enhancing the international competitiveness of US companies which ultimately creates jobs for Americans," Boyd said.

Reports of some companies allegedly misusing the L Visa "threaten to undermine the program's viability for responsible companies who have a long history of using it for legitimate business purposes," Boyd said, urging strict enforcement of existing visa laws and regulations.

American Business for Legal Immigration is a coalition of associations and companies concerned about legal, employment-based immigration.

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