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Many migrant workers face bleak prospects

Article Abstract:

The Farm Labor Strategy proposal submitted by former Secretary of Labor Elizabeth Dole on Jul 24, 1990 was designed to improve the future of migrant workers by coordinating and improving services and enforcement, eliminating duplication of bureaucracy and reconciling conflicting regulations. Although this proposal was ejected by Pres George Bush, the Nov 92 national elections could lead to the proposal getting the attention it deserves. The sad plight of workers is evidenced by statistics which show that their average income amounted to $3,247 in 1985 with unpaid wages of $43,194 between Jun 22, and Jul 20, 1990. Fifty-seven percent of migrant workers in the US come form Mexico and 52% work in vegetable, fruit, sugar cane and grain field crops. Nineteen states exclude them from workers' compensation benefits and 16 states have no laws to protect migrant workers' children.

Laws, regulations and rules, Migrant labor

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Economic recovery linked to job skills

Article Abstract:

The end of the Cold War and the poor economic condition of the country has increased the importance of domestic issues in the forthcoming presidential elections. President George Bush has unveiled a platform that address domestic issues while Governor Bill Clinton has acknowledged the need for work force empowerment for economic development. Clinton has further suggested that 1.5% of the payroll of large companies with more than 50 workers be diverted to personnel training. There is an excess labor supply in the $250 to $749 per week range and a high level of underemployment in the upper and lower brackets which suggest a decreasing middle class. Both candidates have thus suggested that ways be found to increase employment through skills training of entry- and middle-level personnel with the government and business sector jointly shouldering expenses.

Evaluation, Economic aspects, Cover Story, Political aspects, Economic development, Primaries

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Prepare for success in HR

Article Abstract:

Human resources (HR) professionals need to be competent in business and strategic planning in addition to being skilled in benefits and compensation management. It is foreseen that by the year 2000, HR policy and program initiatives will become integrated into business strategic plans. Line managers are expected to become more involved in the planning and implementation of HR functions. A survey indicates that both HR executives (45%) and line managers (46%) believe that experience in line management will become useful for HR professionals by the turn of the century. Eighty five percent of those polled predict that informing the workforce of a company's business directions, problems and plans will become one of the most important functions of the HR department in the coming years.

Forecasts and trends, Column

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