Bill to Reform Outdated Immigration Laws

Washington, DC (November 30, 2012) – Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of H.R. 6429, the STEM Jobs Act. The Act reforms outdated immigration laws so that American companies can remain competitive, instead of losing American-trained students to foreign competitors.

"Immigration laws need to keep pace with the global economy, and today's legislation helps us do just that," said Pearce. "America's universities draw the best and brightest in the world, and the STEM Jobs Act allows our businesses to tap into this investment. By updating our immigration laws through the STEM Jobs Act, we open the door to a vast new source of enhanced innovation, growth, and job creation for America."

The STEM Jobs Act will provide new access to green cards for foreign graduates of American universities with degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As a result, American businesses will be able to keep these students here, and will have access to the world's top innovators and problem-solvers. As a result, the U.S. economy will profit, instead of losing the investment of American universities to foreign competitors.

The Act also includes a pro-family provision to allow spouses and minor children of legal permanent residents (green card holders) to join their family member in the U.S. after they have spent one year on the waiting list. The STEM Jobs Act passed with bipartisan support.