States Could Control Immigration Labor Needs

U.S. Senators John Curtis of Utah and Mark Kelly of Arizona introduced a proposal that would let states pilot visa programs tailored to their labor market needs.  If passed, the State Sponsored Visa Pilot Program Act of 2026 would let participating states choose sponsored workers or investors and monitor compliance. The federal government would retain authority over security screening, visa issuance and enforcement, and all applicants would need federal background and security checks.  Participating states would have to:

• Reassess workforce needs and wages regularly

• Prevent displacement of American workers

• Track participants's employment and residency

• Report compliance to federal official

• Accept visa allocation cuts or suspensions for noncompliance

Senior living and care advocates said they support efforts to address immigration issues tied to ongoing workforce challenges as they review the bill.  Dana Ritchie of AHCA/NCAL said immigrants are vital to long-term care and that the groups support efforts to expand and streamline legal pathways for international caregivers.  Shane Myers of LeadingAge also supports the senators’ efforts. 

The Cato Institute said a similar bill was introduced in 2017.  The Institute called the bill a rare federalist immigration reform that replaces a one-size-fits-all approach with state-specific labor market solutions.