The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is urging members of Congress to pass a new bipartisan bill that will support faith communities across the United States in continuing their religious mission and service. The Religious Workforce Protection Act (RWPA) proposes adjustments to the immigration system to allow foreign religious workers to stay in the U.S. for renewable three-year periods while waiting for permanent residency.
Currently, many religious workers face long wait times for permanent residency, causing disruptions for religious institutions. The RWPA aims to address this issue by providing more flexibility for foreign religious workers, allowing them to continue their vital services without interruption.
In a letter to legislators, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio and Bishop Mark J. Seitz expressed their support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of reforming the system to ensure religious communities can serve their diverse flocks effectively. They highlighted the crucial role that foreign religious workers play in providing services and advancing the religious exercise of Americans.
The Bishops called on all members of Congress to support the RWPA, stating that it will further the free exercise of religion in the country for the benefit of all Americans. With the passage of this bill, faith communities will be able to continue their important work, ensuring access to religious services and sacraments for communities across the nation.
