KODIAK, Alaska—
Canneries in Alaska can continue to hire foreign workers until at least November under the J-1 Summer Work and Travel Program.The visa program brings more than 100,000 foreign college students to the United States each year.
The State Department announced Friday it is making major changes to its premier student-exchange program.
Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich of Alaska lauded the decision, saying it was paramount to keeping canneries in Alaska operating.
There have been reports of for some students facing shabby housing, scarce work hours and paltry pay, alleged conditions that led workers to protest last year at a candy factory that packs Hershey chocolates in Hershey, Pa.
A last minute decision would have left most Alaska canneries understaffed.
