EB-5 Program Veteran Joins American Lending Center Amid Regulatory Shift

NEW YORK, NY – November 19, 2025

Navigating a Complex Landscape

American Lending Center (ALC) has appointed Gary N. Merson as Executive Vice President, a strategic move signaling a commitment to strengthened compliance and proactive navigation of the evolving EB-5 immigrant investor program. Merson, a veteran of federal government with extensive experience in immigration policy and homeland security, brings a wealth of expertise as the industry grapples with new regulations implemented by the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022. This appointment underscores a growing trend within the EB-5 space: a heightened emphasis on regulatory expertise and a proactive approach to risk management.

“The EB-5 program is becoming increasingly complex, and regional centers need strong leadership with a deep understanding of the legal and policy landscape,” explained one industry consultant. “Merson’s background is particularly valuable given the recent changes and increased scrutiny.”

A Focus on Compliance and Strategic Growth

For ALC, which manages 14 EB-5 regional centers and has raised capital for over 100 projects in 31 states, Merson's role will be pivotal in ensuring adherence to the new regulations and fostering continued strategic growth. The company currently has $2.3 billion in assets under management and has been recognized for its growth, appearing on the Inc. 5000 list for five consecutive years and receiving accolades from the Financial Times. However, this growth comes with increased responsibility, particularly regarding investor protection and compliance.

“The Act requires regional centers to demonstrate a higher level of transparency and accountability,” said an immigration attorney specializing in EB-5 cases. “They need individuals who can navigate the complexities of the regulations and ensure that they are meeting all the requirements.”

Merson’s prior experience at the Department of Homeland Security and as Chief Counsel for the House Judiciary Committee’s immigration subcommittee positions him well to lead this effort. His work on the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act, in particular, provides valuable insight into the intent and implementation of the new regulations. He also brings a deep understanding of the challenges faced by investors and the need for clear and concise communication.

The Broader Impact of Regulatory Shifts

The appointment of Merson is indicative of a broader trend within the EB-5 industry. The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act has fundamentally reshaped the program, introducing stricter oversight, increased transparency requirements, and enhanced investor protections. These changes are designed to address concerns about fraud, mismanagement, and a lack of accountability that have plagued the program in the past.

One key aspect of the new regulations is the introduction of set-aside visas for investments in rural areas and high-unemployment zones. This is intended to incentivize investment in economically distressed communities and create jobs in areas that need them most. The shift has led to increased demand for rural projects, prompting regional centers to focus on developing projects in these areas. Another crucial change is the increased scrutiny of regional center operations, with mandatory audits every five years and annual reporting requirements.

The EB-5 program continues to be a vital source of capital for U.S. businesses and infrastructure projects. However, it faces increasing competition from other investment-based immigration programs around the world. Regional centers need to demonstrate a commitment to compliance, transparency, and investor protection in order to attract capital and maintain a competitive edge. This requires strong leadership with a deep understanding of the legal and policy landscape – expertise Merson is expected to provide.

“The EB-5 program has the potential to be a powerful engine for economic growth and job creation,” commented an economic development official. “But it needs to be managed responsibly and transparently. This appointment sends a positive signal that ALC is committed to doing just that.”

The company has funded projects across various sectors, including commercial real estate, clean energy, and healthcare, generating over 30,000 new jobs, as well as retaining another 120,000. The increased emphasis on compliance is crucial to maintain this economic contribution.