Why JTC Supports the EB-5 Regional Center Program Advisory Committee Authorization Act (H.R. 6992)

Recently introduced EB-5 legislation would establish a committee to improve communication between USCIS, EB-5 Regional Centers, local governments, and other EB-5 stakeholders.

As we continue the push for reauthorization of the EB-5 Regional Center Program, it’s important to get the word out about all the good EB-5 has done. At the same time, we must acknowledge that there are ways the program could be improved. No one understands this more clearly than the stakeholders working within it, which is why many are now backing H.R. 6992: new legislation designed to improve how the program is run and how USCIS engages with the people who rely on it.

What is the EB-5 Regional Center Program Advisory Committee Authorization Act?

January 9th, 2026 saw the introduction of H.R. 6992, the EB-5 Regional Center Program Advisory Committee Authorization Act. Backed by bipartisan support, the bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Sam Liccardo (D-CA), and Lance Gooden (R-TX).

If passed, the bill would “establish in U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services of the Department of Homeland Security an EB–5 Regional Center Program Advisory Committee” that would “develop recommendations for improvements to the EB–5 Regional Center Program.”

Committee Membership and Structure

The committee would include “not more than 35 members” appointed by the Secretary of Homeland Security, selected among “representatives of Federal, State, local and Tribal Governments and EB–5 regional centers in good standing representing projects from diverse geographies and diverse project types.”

This would give leading EB-5 Regional Centers and local governments a seat at the table where they could recommend changes that might improve how EB-5 is administered. To ensure a diverse array of perspectives and opinions, the committee will include at least two but no less than three members from any one category. These categories include Regional Centers representing the high unemployment, rural, and infrastructure categories, as well as those from different geographical regions.

Elected officials would include mayors of cities with populations of greater than 250,000, between 100,000 and 250,000, and less than 100,000 people. Economic development officers, representatives of the State Department and Department of Commerce, trade associations, and other stakeholders would make up the remaining spots on the committee.

The committee would meet “at least quarterly,” with some meetings open to the public. There would also be subcommittees on “Administration, Impact, Policy, and other relevant issues.” A yearly report would summarize the activities of the committee as it discusses and presents recommendations for procedural changes at USCIS and other ways the EB-5 Regional Center Program can be improved.

For EB-5 investors and industry stakeholders, this would mean improved communication with USCIS, which has long been a sticking point for EB-5 stakeholders, who feel the agency has done a poor job of providing clarity on technical issues and status updates about visa queues.

Why Industry Leaders Are Supporting the EB-5 Regional Center Program Bill

Industry trade organization Invest In the USA (IIUSA) is optimistic about the bill’s potential, stating, “the committee would improve communication, coordination, and program administration, [and] strengthen oversight while supporting the long-term integrity and effectiveness of the EB-5 Regional Center Program.”

At a webinar explaining the bill and how to support it, George McElwee, President & Founder, The Reserve Component, echoed the sentiment that improved communication with USCIS is the primary benefit of the committee.

“It’s been a challenge for us to communicate with USCIS,” he said, noting that the committee would also improve transparency and enhance the effectiveness of the program by allowing various stakeholders the chance to explain their perspectives.

“The beneficiaries of the EB-5 program are not just the investors. It’s not just those doing the projects, but it’s the local communities. It’s those communities that are benefiting from the job creation,” said McElwee.

The bill would also aid in the push for EB-5 reauthorization. While lobbying for the passage of the advisory bill, stakeholders can explain the benefits of EB-5 to lawmakers, and once the committee is in action, it can work to provide better official program data that will enhance arguments for why the Regional Center program should be made permanent.

“We’re focusing on the virtues of the EB-5 program and making sure that members of Congress are engaged and want to make sure the program is here for the long term,” said McElwee.

How to Support the EB-5 Advisory Committee Authorization Act

IIUSA Executive Director Aaron Grau stressed that while the bill does have co-sponsors from both parties, it will need a lot more support in order to have a chance of passing.

“What we’re asking members of IIUSA to do is to email or call your representatives and ask them to support H.R. 6992,” said Grau. “Obviously, you’ll want to highlight EB-5 job creation and EB-5 investment in your congressman or congresswoman’s district.”

JTC supports the passage of a bill that would establish better relations with USCIS, encourage the long-term health of the Regional Center Program, and demonstrate the industry’s commitment to measurable impact and program improvements. IIUSA has drafted an email template that you can use when contacting lawmakers. Get in touch with your representatives today and let them know you support H.R. 6992!

View the draft email