One Million Undocumented Workers Could Get Legal Status Under New US Bill

A new bill currently making its way through the US legislative process could provide a pathway to legal status for nearly a million undocumented immigrants. The "Building America Stronger" Act, championed by the Hispanic Construction Council, targets undocumented workers in the construction industry, a sector facing significant labor shortages. The bill's supporters argue that legalizing these workers is essential to address the housing crisis and bolster economic growth. To qualify, immigrants must demonstrate five years of continuous US residency, three years of construction work, and a clean criminal record. They would also be required to pay an initial $1500 fee and $1000 annually for five years. "This is a crucial step toward fixing our broken immigration system and recognizing the invaluable contributions of these workers," said Carlos Eduardo Espina, a social media commentator who discusses the bill in a recent video. While the bill faces an uncertain path through Congress, its introduction marks a significant step in the ongoing debate over immigration reform in the United States.