Rep. Lloyd Smucker [R-PA-11] recently re-introduced the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act (H.R. 5494). This legislation will help various sectors, including long term care, who currently have no visa program that allows them to legally hire year-round temporary workers. It would provide temporary visas for workers that will be valid for 3 years along with two potential 3-year visa renewals. More details on the bill can be found in Rep. Smucker’s press release. H.R. 5494 has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Ways and Means, and Oversight and Government Reform. There is currently not a Senate companion. It is supported by the Essential Worker Immigration Coalition (EWIC), of which AHCA/NCAL is an active member. More on this bill can be found in the EWIC statement.