U.S. Rep. David Jolly, R-Fla., who opened the door to running for the U.S. Senate in 2016, tackled immigration this week, bringing out a new proposal which would make it easier for immigrants who own businesses to stay in the United States
On Thursday, Jolly brought out a proposal which would allow immigrants who own businesses through the E-2 investor visa the opportunity to apply to become permanent residents after a 10-year period. Under current law, E-2 visa holders must leave once their visa expires despite owning businesses.
Those who enter our country legally on a non-immigrant E-2 visa come from all over the world to start a business in our country, bringing with them the entrepreneurial spirit to start businesses and fully integrate into our communities, Jolly said on Friday. Without an opportunity for permanent residency these visa holders cannot take the next step in carrying out the American dream that initially brought them to the United States.
Under current law, children of E-2 visa holders must either leave the U.S. or apply for a visa when they turn 21. Jollys law would allow children of E-2 visa holders to stay until they reach 26 and would let them apply for visas of their own when they turn 18.
Zoe Adams, whose family owns a pool servicing company in Lakeland and has been active pushing for changes through her E-2 Visa Reform group, praised Jollys measure on Friday.
E-2 Visa Reform is extremely grateful to Congressman David Jolly for introducing this bill and supporting a group of immigrants who help the U.S. economy with investment and job creation, Adams said. Our very diverse businesses will be able to move forward with a confidence that will include greater growth and a more secure platform for our employees. We look forward to working with Congressman Jollys office and the many other representatives who can make this bill become a law.
E-2 Visa Reform estimates around there are 100,000 investors and business owners currently in the U.S. through the E-2 visa.
Jollys office informed Sunshine State News on Friday that they are currently gathering co-sponsors in the House. The bill was sent to the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or follow him on Twitter: @KevinDerbySSN
