News
Advocacy Recap—Employment Recovery May be Slowing Down as Virus Cases Climb
June 26, 2020
Welcome to the ISSA Advocacy Recap, our regular roundup of the latest public policy issues impacting the cleaning industry. This week’s recap touches on employment recovery slowing down as coronavirus cases soar, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning against nine hand sanitizers containing methanol, the White House executive order suspending employment-based visas through the end of the year, and more.
Employment Recovery May be Slowing as Virus Cases Soar
Data shows a slowing of the jobs recovery in recent weeks as major cities like Phoenix, Houston, and Los Angeles see higher numbers of coronavirus cases. According to CNBC, “the marginal improvement in the labor market is a positive sign we’re on the road to recovery, but the increasing claims states where virus cases are up proves there will be bumps along the way.”
FDA Warns Against Nine Hand Sanitizers After Dangerous Chemical Discovered
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned against the use of nine hand sanitizers produced by Mexico-based manufacturer Eskbiochem SA due to the presence of methanol. Methanol is a toxic substance which, if ingested or absorbed through the skin, can be perilous. The agency said consumers who have used hand sanitizer containing methanol should seek immediate treatment, stop using the products, and dispose of them immediately in appropriate hazardous waste containers. The FDA contacted Eskbiochem to remove the products from the market.
White House Extends Immigration Restrictions Through End of the Year
The White House issued an executive order to suspend several employment-based visas through the end of December, citing the coronavirus pandemic and economic downturn. The proclamation barred workers on: H-1B specialty visas, H-4 visas for spouses of foreign workers, most types of H-2B nonagricultural work visas, most J-1 visas for exchange students and visitors, and L-1 visas that allow companies to transfer in foreign workers to U.S. outposts. The proclamation has exceptions and was not expected to affect people already in the United States on these visas, those who have the visa and are abroad, permanent residents, and certain family members of U.S. residents.
Other Links of Interest:
- ISSA Director of Government Affairs John Nothdurft Speaks About ISSA Advocacy Efforts
- Latest ISSA Advocacy Webinar Recording Now Available
- Supreme Court Delivers Win for Trump in Case Over Speedy Deportation
- U.S. GDP Fell at 5% Rate in First Quarter, and Worse is Likely on the Way
- The Fed Said It Could Supply $2.3 Million to the Economy, But Has Yet to Come Close
