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In a move to boost its economy and address the labor shortage in key industries, Oregon has introduced a new immigration policy that aims to attract skilled workers from around the world. The policy, announced by Governor Sarah Thompson on Monday, offers fast-track residency and work permits to individuals with high-demand skills in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and engineering.Under the new policy, foreign nationals with qualifications and experience in these sectors can apply for expedited residency and work permits, cutting down the processing time from months to weeks. The goal is to encourage talented individuals to move to Oregon and contribute to the state's thriving industries.Governor Thompson emphasized the importance of attracting skilled workers to Oregon, stating that they are essential for the state's economic growth and competitiveness in the global market. "We need to tap into the global talent pool to fill the gaps in our workforce and drive innovation in key industries," she said.The announcement has been met with mixed reactions from the public. Some view it as a positive step towards addressing the labor shortage and boosting economic growth, while others have expressed concerns about potential job competition and the impact on local workers.In response to these concerns, Governor Thompson emphasized that the policy is designed to complement, not replace, local talent. "Our goal is to fill the gaps in our workforce while also investing in education and training programs for Oregonians to enhance their skills and competitiveness in the job market," she explained.The new immigration policy is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and will be closely monitored and evaluated for its impact on the state's economy and workforce. Oregon joins a growing number of states and countries that are implementing targeted immigration policies to attract skilled workers and drive economic growth.