More than 30 of IIUSA’s Leadership Circle Members took to Capitol Hill this week to advocate for the EB-5 program. The group met with key House and Senate Judiciary Committee members and staff, and conversations covered a wide range of topics.
Notably, there was a very high level of knowledge of the program, which has not always been the case. Members of Congress and their staffs were engaged and receptive to hearing the groups’ perspectives. This reinforces what IIUSA has been saying throughout the year: the increased spotlight on the EB-5 Visa creates a tremendous opportunity to advocate for the program.
Utilizing this increased awareness, IIUSA members focused on several common themes:
- Extend grandfathering protections beyond September 2026.
- Reauthorize the EB-5 Regional Center Program beyond 2027.
- Pass the EB-5 Regional Center Advisory Committee Authorization Act to enhance oversight and ensure program stability, bill number forthcoming.
- Reform derivative counting to unlock greater investment and job creation.
These conversations underscored the value of IIUSA’s unified voice on behalf of the EB-5 industry. Leadership Circle members were able to share firsthand accounts of EB-5’s impact in their communities, including investments in local infrastructure, job creation, and revitalization projects. By putting real-world examples in front of lawmakers, IIUSA demonstrated the program’s ongoing importance to America’s economic development.
The meetings concluded with remarks from EB-5 champion Rep. Greg Stanton, who highlighted his firsthand experience of the impact the EB-5 can play on a community during his previous service as mayor of Phoenix, AZ.
IIUSA President Bill Gresser noted, “These meetings highlight the power of collective advocacy. When we come together and speak with one voice, we help ensure EB-5 remains a critical tool for economic growth and job creation.”
IIUSA will continue to build on the momentum from this fly-in, strengthening relationships on Capitol Hill and ensuring that policymakers understand the importance of protecting and improving the EB-5 program.
