Congress could be close to its first major immigration overhaul in more than two decades.
The so-called "Gang of Eight" senators cleared a major hurdle... signing off on a guest worker program that could allow tens of thousands of low-skill workers to come the U.S.
They would primarily fill agriculture, construction, hotel and restaurant jobs.
Some Republicans are warning about rushing a senate bill that won't pass in the GOP controlled house, but reform advocates are saying that they have momentum on their side.
Local congressmen are saying it's long overdue they're hopeful an agreement will be reached when lawmakers get back from break.
Local Democrats believe there's a good chance this year to reach a bi-partisan deal on sweeping immigration reform.
They say a deal taking shape in Washington will help bring stability to the local ag industry.
Valley Congressman Jim Costa said, "It will allow a stable source of employment for agricultural economy. The uncertainty that our farm workers face, who are undocumented, and the impacts that has to do with our farm economy, create problems every year."
Manuel Cunha with the Nisei Farmers League says the ag provision in the bill would be a huge relief to millions of immigrants across the U.S. "They're here legally, they don't have to worry every morning knowing that they're gonna get raided by ICE or not or targeted," said Cunha.
Local Republicans are optimistic some deal will be struck but the actual form it will take remains to be seen.
Valley Congressman David Valadao said, "Hopefully we get something that's workable out of the deal. Makes me a little nervous that they're being so secretive, but it's still something that has to be resolved and just get this past us."
Senators say a vote on comprehensive immigration reform could come as early as May.