Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HR481

Introduced
6/7/23  

Caption

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that BridgeUSA exchange programs are vital to the economy and national interests of the United States, and that Congress should prioritize robust support to ensure equitable opportunities for Americans and people from other countries.

Impact

The resolution underscores that BridgeUSA programs attract approximately 300,000 participants from over 200 countries each year, contributing significantly to the U.S. economy. It points out that the absence of such programs has a notable adverse effect on revenues, particularly in industries reliant on seasonal workers, like hospitality and recreation. Furthermore, the resolution encapsulates that most employers believe they would struggle to operate effectively without the international counseling and workforce these programs provide.

Summary

House Resolution 481 expresses the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the importance of BridgeUSA exchange programs, which are critical for the economy and national interests of the United States. The resolution emphasizes that Congress should continue to support these programs robustly to ensure equitable opportunities for both Americans and foreign participants. It highlights the historical context of the BridgeUSA program, which evolved from the J–1 Exchange Visitor Program, originally established during the Cold War to foster positive diplomatic relations.

Contention

Although the resolution articulates strong support for BridgeUSA programs, there may be underlying concerns or differing opinions regarding the prioritization of visa processing for participants from these programs. Some stakeholders may argue about the fairness and impact of these programs on local labor markets. Additionally, while many celebrate the cultural exchange aspect, others might express worries related to national security that need to be considered alongside the economic and cultural benefits provided by the influx of international participants.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HR460

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Congress should enact the Older Americans Bill of Rights to establish that older Americans should have the right to live with dignity and with independence.

US HR465

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Congress should enact the Older Americans Bill of Rights to establish that older Americans should have the right to live with dignity and with independence.

US HR270

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should negotiate strong, inclusive, and forward-looking rules on digital trade and the digital economy with like-minded countries as part of its broader trade and economic strategy in order to ensure American values of democracy, rule of law, freedom of speech, human and worker rights, privacy, and a free and open internet are at the very core of digital governance.

US HR336

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the House should recognize Robert Aitken's Bible as a historical document of the United States Congress.

US HR549

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is a vital part of the ecology of Georgia and should be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

US HR1617

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that it is the duty of the Federal Government to dramatically expand and strengthen the care economy.

US HR180

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that Thomas Garrett was and should be recognized as a national abolitionist leader and activist in the struggle against slavery in the United States.

US HR510

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Parthenon Marbles should be returned to Greece.

US HR440

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the benefits of global trade improve the lives of Americans and American communities by fostering a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous economy.

US HR525

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the African Union should be a permanent member of the Group of 20.

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