Microsoft Hires Lobbyist for Visa Issues

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Associated Press
Microsoft Hires Lobbyist for Visa Issues
Associated Press 08.24.07, 3:51 PM ET

WASHINGTON -

Microsoft Corp. hired SC Partners LLC to lobby the federal government on immigration matters, according to a disclosure form.

The firm will lobby on issues related to temporary visas and green cards for high-tech foreign workers, according to the form posted online Thursday by the Senate's public records office.

Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft (nasdaq: MSFT - news - people ) is part of a coalition of tech companies and other groups lobbying the federal government to raise the number of H-1B visas, which allow companies to hire skilled foreign professionals for up to six years. The cap is currently set at 65,000.

Tech companies contend they need such workers to stay competitive globally. Opponents have said raising the visa cap would lower wages and discourage American youngsters from pursuing tech careers.

Microsoft has previously said that about one-third of its 46,000 U.S.-based employees have work visas or are legal permanent residents with green cards.

Under a federal law enacted in 1995, lobbyists are required to disclose activities that could influence members of the executive and legislative branches. They must register with Congress within 45 days of being hired or engaging in lobbying.