U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker released the following statement on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services proposed new rule that would allow eligible international entrepreneurs to stay in the United States to start and scale their businesses.

“Today’s proposed rule will have a significant impact on the immigrant entrepreneurs that make extraordinary contributions to America’s economy,” said Secretary Pritzker. “In the absence of comprehensive immigration reform, I’m delighted to see a solution that will allow the innovators behind many of our nation’s startups to remain in the United States, where they can continue strengthening our economy and creating good jobs.”

“We know that all too often, promising startups lose top talent because of visa challenges, causing companies to either close or to relocate abroad. Both scenarios can be detrimental to our nation’s economy. I encourage every entrepreneur, startup and business to provide feedback during the rule’s public comment period and to participate in this program once implemented. I look forward to convening entrepreneurs, startups and other stakeholders around the country to make sure this program achieves its goals.”

For additional information, please visit the USCIS website.

Friday, August 26, 2016