The Workers We need,
DONE THE RIGHT WAY.
WORK AUTHORIZATIONS BUILD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Fixing The Visa System: A Workforce Solution
congress Can’t Ignore
The U.S. visa system is broken. It’s a crisis affecting national security, the futures of over 130,000 construction workers, and the ability of industries like construction to fill workforce shortages. It’s time for Congress to act. Here are the critical actions needed to address these challenges.
Broken Visa System Fuels Workforce Shortage
Our visa system isn’t just flawed—it’s undermining key sectors of the economy. Construction is one of the hardest-hit industries, with no legal pathways for less-skilled workers to meet the growing demand. Meanwhile, current programs like Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) are stuck in legislative limbo, leaving workers and employers in a constant state of uncertainty. Congress must take bold, targeted action to create a system that works for workers, employers, and national security alike.
Extend TPS and DACA Work Authorizations
Construction relies on an estimated 130,000 workers with TPS and DACA status. These individuals are skilled, experienced, and essential to the industry—but their status is at risk due to fluctuating policies and court rulings. Congress must extend work authorizations for these individuals and pass permanent legislative solutions to protect Dreamers and TPS holders. They’ve been contributing to the economy for decades; now it’s time to ensure they can continue to do so.
Temporary Visas for Year-Round Workers
Legal immigration options exist for seasonal agriculture (H-2A), seasonal non-agriculture (H-2B), and highly skilled (H-1B) workers. But what about lesser-skilled, year-round workers?The construction industry desperately needs a market-driven temporary visa program to meet current and future workforce needs. By creating a legal pathway for these workers, we can reduce illegal immigration while filling critical job gaps.
Expand H-2B for Construction: Tailored Solutions for the Industry
The H-2B visa program—designed for seasonal non-agriculture workers—is capped at 66,000 annually, a limit that doesn’t reflect the needs of construction. Reforms should exempt returning workers from the cap and allow the cap to rise during economic booms. Additionally, the program must better align with the unique demands of construction companies. Addressing these issues will provide much-needed relief to an industry facing historic shortages.
Protecting National Security: A Dual Focus on Safety and Fairness
Stronger border security and improved screening of foreign workers are essential to national security. But the solution doesn’t stop there. Contractors improving border security must be shielded from retaliation by local or state governments. Discouraging reputable firms from working on these projects only jeopardizes safety. AGC calls for balanced measures that enhance security while protecting contractors from discriminatory practices.
Legislation to Watch
Get in Touch
We value your interest in our immigration reform initiative and welcome your questions, insights, or feedback. This initiative is vital to addressing workforce shortages and strengthening the construction industry’s future, and your engagement is essential to its success.
If you’d like to learn more or discuss specific aspects of the initiative, our team is here to assist you.
