Senate Committee Passes Legislation to Protect Cultural Exchange

Senate Committee Passes Legislation to Protect Cultural Exchange

Important J-1 Visa Exchange Visitors Program Update " Key Senate Committee Passes Legislation to Protect Cultural Exchange

Earlier this week, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved an amendment aimed at protecting the J-1 Visa cultural exchange programs. The bipartisan measure introduced by Senators Chris Coons, Ranking Member Patrick Leahy, and Senator Lisa Murkowski requires the Trump Administration to follow the proper regulatory procedures should it choose to make any changes to the J-1 program. This would include notifying the public and accepting public comments.

As most of you know, a few weeks ago there were multiple reports that senior White House officials are considering a reduction to a handful of J-1 Visa Programs as part of the Trump Administration's Buy American, Hire American (BAHA) Executive Order. If adopted, these cuts would impact the au pair, summer work travel, and intern/trainee categories.

The move by the Senate Committee signifies Congress's support for our important program. But we must continue working to ensure the J-1 programs survive for generations to come. You can play a significant role by taking the following actions:

Share the news of the Senate's action on social media by tweeting the below sample tweets.

  • Senate Appropriations Committee passes amendment to protect the J1 Exchange Visitor Program. #saveJ1
  • Senate Appropriations Committee pushes back on White House threat to eliminate the J1-Visa program #saveJ1
  • Thank you @senatorleahy, @lisamurkowski & @ChrisCoons for your support of the J1 Exchange Visitor Program #saveJ1

Share your positive experience through Americans for Cultural Exchange

Write a Letter to the Editor of the newspaper in your U.S. community

This is hopefully the first of many positive developments. Your actions thus far have helped us to educate many on the benefits of the cultural exchange program. We must continue working together to face this challenge. Share this message with friends, family members, and colleagues. Urge them to support cultural exchange today. Truly, it's never been more important.

By Marcie Schneider

President, Intrax

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