On May 1, industry participants and regulators convened at Churchill Downs to discuss the urgent need for reform in the U.S. immigration laws governing foreign workers, particularly in the horse racing and agricultural sectors. With the borders largely secured, stakeholders emphasized the importance of revising the H-2A and H-2B visa programs, which are essential for labor in these industries. California Horse Racing Board vice president Oscar Gonzales noted that the industry is encouraged by President Trump’s willingness to consider permits for foreign workers.
A key concern raised was the difficulty for workers who previously qualified for H-2B visas to return to the U.S. for continued employment. Trainer Dale Romans highlighted the stress faced by legal foreign workers amid ongoing mass deportations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, expressing fears about their safety and job security. Romans, who recently met with industry leaders in Washington, underscored the need for sensible immigration reform that protects lawful workers while addressing labor shortages.
Gonzales, with his extensive experience in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, indicated that the industry will actively pursue improvements for foreign worker options in the coming months. The discussions reflect a broader humanitarian, labor, and business issue, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring that foreign workers can contribute legally and effectively to the U.S. economy.
