AHLA Statement in Support of the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act

WASHINGTON (May 31, 2023) – American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) President & CEO Chip Rogers is speaking out today in support of the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act (H.R.3734), which was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Lloyd Smucker.

“The Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act is an important bill that would help improve one of the most challenging labor markets we’ve seen in decades,” said AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers. “By creating a new, H-2C nonimmigrant visa classification as part of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the bill would connect employers with qualified employees, authorizing them to work in the U.S. for at least three years. With its focus on occupations that provide growth opportunities without the need for a college degree, the bill would prove critical in helping hotels fill the more than 100,000 jobs currently open across the nation. We commend Rep. Smucker for carrying this bill and call on his congressional colleagues to help send it to the president’s desk.”

Background Info

According to Indeed, there are more than 100,000 hotel jobs currently open across the nation.

About AHLA

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) is the largest hotel association in America, representing more than 30,000 members from all segments of the industry nationwide – including iconic global brands, 80% of all franchised hotels, and the 16 largest hotel companies in the U.S. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AHLA focuses on strategic advocacy, communications support, and workforce development programs to move the industry forward. Learn more at ahla.com.