Atlantic City residents become chairmen and chairwomen of the boards

A federal ban on international students working as rolling-chair pushers on the Atlantic City Boardwalk is prompting more area residents to seek those jobs.

 

The U.S. banned foreign students from the job because of safety and liability concerns.

 

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Bill Boland, who owns Royal Rolling Chairs, said that without those students, owners are putting fewer chairs on the Boardwalk and people looking for work are finding the job more attractive.

“Before, the locals didn’t come out because there were so many international students out there they didn’t make the same type of money they’re making now,” Boland said. “They used to go up there and make $50 to $100 in a night. Now they’re coming back on Saturday nights with $250. So now it’s becoming a good job again.”

Boland said the locals are providing a better service than the foreign students who often had difficulty speaking English and don’t know the local attractions.

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