WASHINGTON, D.C. - Mexican guest-workers who labored in the United States in the 1940s -- known as braceros -- will soon be able to apply for money withheld from their paychecks but not given to them by the Mexican government.

"I'm pleased that a settlement has been reached between the Mexican government and lawyers representing more than a quarter-million braceros," said Congressman Sam Farr (D-Carmel). "It's past time that surviving braceros and their families see the money they earned so many years ago. Any successful guest-worker program can only be successful if both countries keep their promises to workers."

A San Francisco judge approved a preliminary deal last week that will benefit workers and their families who took railroad and farm jobs in the United States between 1942 and 1946 under an agreement between the U.S. and Mexican governments. The agreement would provide about $3,500 for each bracero.

"The braceros and families of these workers who supplied labor the United States desperately needed during World War II will finally see the money they were promised 60 years ago," Rep. Farr said.

The deadline for applying for funds is December 23. Assistance is available from Caso Bracero. For help, call 1-877-436-9359 or visit www.casobracero.com. Letters can be sent to Caso Bracero, P.O. Box 641610, Chicago, Illinois, 60664-1610.

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