But over time, the program became as much about staffing businesses as cultural enrichment. Businesses that hire a foreign student over an American can save 8 percent because they don't have to pay Medicare, Social Security and unemployment taxes. Also, the foreigners must have their own health insurance.
Many businesses insist they need the seasonal labor during busy times, especially in resort towns. The students can be found waiting tables, flipping burgers or cleaning hotel rooms across the United States.
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