Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley hailed the federal government’s decision to grant additional temporary worker visas Thursday, saying the move will bolster Maryland’s crab industry.
O’Malley said the Department of Homeland Security would allow an additional 25,000 visas, on top of the 66,000 temporary visas already approved for fiscal 2009.
“Today’s announcement is good news for all whose livelihood depends on the crab industry,” O’Malley said. “These additional temporary workers visas will allow the crab-picking houses on our shore to remain strong throughout the season with the work force they need.”
A severe labor shortage has prevented a number of crab-processing facilities from opening this season, and has led others to operate under capacity, O’Malley’s office said.
