Vermont: recommendations for Office of New Americans
Vermont’s legislature is pursuing new legal immigration pathways to help address statewide labor shortages. A bipartisan bill passed in May established the New Americans Study Committee, tasked with analyzing economic data related to immigrants and making recommendations around immigrant access to education, licensing, and housing. Advocates, including Vermont Asylum Assistance Project, say immigrants represent a growing working-age demographic vital to the state’s economy, but face hurdles in obtaining professional licenses or certifications. The committee began meeting in September and will deliver its report in 2026. Vermont also previously passed a law permitting qualified immigrants to receive certain professional licenses or certifications without a Social Security number. The move fits into broader efforts to integrate immigrant workers and align their skills with workforce needs in Vermont.