Saturday, November 10, 2007

The CNMI's New Labor (and Immigration) Law

This controversial bill was signed into law yesterday. The most contentious section of the new law provides for an exit requirement. All non-resident workers must leave the CNMI for six months every three-and-a-half years. The business community has been fighting hard against this. Many rely heavily upon non-resident workers, and the prospect of being without key workers for a six month period, and the cost of filling the gap, have been concerning.

Why the clause? Today's Saipan Tribune gives the answer, quoting the Governor.

Fitial said the exit requirement is designed "to prevent the aliens from making the CNMI their home and making them eligible for permanent resident status [under future federal immigration law]."

There you have it.

4 comments:

Bruce A. Bateman said...

Ask Cinta.

Angelo Villagomez said...

I think we all knew that from the beginning. I personally do not believe that was the reason the bill was written, but I believe that may be one reason why it got a lot of yes votes.

Does this mean that EJ, my contract worker girlfriend will have to go to Korea in 3 1/2 years?

I hope I like kimchee, because I'll go with her.

Mike Ernest said...

You could always make her an I.R.

Angelo Villagomez said...

I've got 3 1/2 years before I have to make that decision. I'd have to get her to say YES first.