Respect for Essential Workers Act

H.R. 7899 would provide a pathway to permanent residency for essential workers who currently hold temporary protected status (TPS). Under this bill, eligible workers in essential industries and areas with health care shortages would be able to apply for permanent residency beginning 90 days after the bill becomes law. This would prevent them from being deported if their temporary protected status is terminated.

The bill targets workers in sectors such as health care, emergency response, food supply, construction, transportation, hospitality, and home and family care. According to the bill's sponsor, these workers have contributed significantly to the U.S. economy and communities, particularly during the pandemic. The legislation is currently in the House Committee on the Judiciary and has not yet been voted on by the full chamber.