Exempt Schedule A - Shortage Occupations from the Annual Employment Based Visa Cap

Physical therapists are one of the most rapidly growing occupations in the U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the number of jobs for physical therapists will jump 39% between 2010 and 2020, yet there will be a deficit of skilled individuals to fill them. Shortages will be felt most acutely in the south and west, but by 2030, all states will be faced with an undersupply of physical therapists. Despite the anticipated shortages of physical therapists, immigration procedures are inhibiting the eligibility of foreign-born physical therapists who wish to work here. Becoming eligible is no guarantee of remaining here either, as an H-1B visa may not be available, and a green card could take years. I request consider exempting Schedule A Occupations from the Employment Based visa caps.