Extension in hiring of alien workers at NMC sought

Saying there is still a need for it, a lawmaker is proposing to extend up to 2012 the hiring of nonresident workers at the Northern Marianas College.

Rep. Justo S. Quitugua introduced House Bill 14-329, which aims to amend 3 CMC section 4434 to extend the hiring of nonresident workers at the college and to mandate a manpower training and educational plan.

“The college still needs to hire nonresident professionals to fill vital positions that are not filled by U.S. citizens or resident workers,” said Quitugua.

The bill, he said, extends the sunset provision in the hiring of guest workers from September 2005 to September 2012.

The existing law allows NMC to hire nonresident workers as instructors, research scientists, and other technical and professionals, provided that they are graduates of U.S. universities and colleges and U.S. accredited institutions. This provision expires on Sept. 30 this year.

“I want this particular provision be amended to Sept. 30, 2012,” said Quitugua.

At the same time, the lawmaker favors the development of a manpower training and education plan to meet the ultimate goal of filling the positions with local residents.

One year after the bill is enacted, he said, the college shall submit to the Legislature a comprehensive manpower training and educational plan “in order to replace the nonresident workers.”