Hoosier State Today

U.S. Senators Todd Young and Joe Manchin have introduced the Heartland Visa Act of 2024, aiming to enable distressed communities to attract high-skilled immigrants. This initiative is designed to address issues arising from current immigration patterns, where low-skilled illegal immigration has increased while high-skilled legal immigrants tend to settle in coastal cities.

The bill proposes that communities with declining populations can opt into the Heartland Visa program, which would allow them to draw qualified high-skilled immigrants who have secured well-paying job offers in the U.S. "President-elect Trump has expressed a desire to make it easier for highly-educated foreigners to bring their talents to the United States," stated Senator Young. He emphasized that this bill could be a part of broader efforts to secure borders and improve immigration systems by revitalizing American communities through economic growth driven by high-skilled employment.

Senator Manchin highlighted the dual benefits of border security and economic stimulation, particularly in rural areas. "I am proud to join Senator Young in this bipartisan effort as one of my final acts as a United States Senator," he said, hoping that this proposal will spark further discussions on securing borders and maintaining a strong economy.

The legislation allows economically declining counties to apply for participation in the Heartland Visa program. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will finalize the list of participating counties from these applications. Qualified foreign individuals with job offers can then apply for special visas under DHS, allowing them residency and work rights in these counties. Visas will be issued based on a wage-based point system prioritizing higher salaries, with considerations like state-specific educational backgrounds also factored in.

Enforcement remains crucial within this program; applicants must pass comprehensive background checks, maintain updated addresses, and submit tax returns while participating. Violations may lead to deportation, and there is a cap on participant numbers.

The Economic Innovation Group endorses the Heartland Visa Act as it believes it provides significant economic growth opportunities for American communities left behind by existing policies. John Lettieri from EIG commented on how skilled immigrants contribute positively through new jobs, businesses, higher wages, and increased tax revenues supporting local services.

The bill also receives backing from various organizations including Americans for Prosperity and the Center for American Entrepreneurship among others.