New York Construction Report staff writer
Bipartisan legislation aims to address severe labor shortages in the construction industry by creating a visa program for construction workers, a move industry leaders say could help prevent project delays.
The measure, called the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act, was introduced last week by Pennsylvania Congressman Lloyd Smucker. If passed, it would establish the first-ever visa program providing a lawful pathway for foreign workers to enter the construction sector.
Jeffrey D. Shoaf, CEO of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), called the legislation a “much needed, lawful, responsible and temporary way for firms to find workers,” noting workforce shortages are the leading cause of construction project delays. A recent survey conducted by AGC and the National Center for Construction Education and Research found that 92 percent of firms are struggling to hire enough qualified workers.
The visa program would serve as a short-term solution while longer-term strategies are implemented, including reforms to career and technical education programs.
“Even if Congress were to significantly boost funding for construction education and training tomorrow, it would still take years for schools and training centers to provide the number of workers construction firms need,” Shoaf said.
The AGC is urging Congress to pass the bill swiftly and for President Trump to sign it into law. Shoaf emphasized that the visa program would provide a traceable and taxable pathway to help firms while the domestic pipeline of skilled construction workers is rebuilt.
