Canadian tourism to the U.S. could soon see a major boost through a newly proposed bipartisan bill that would extend how long Canadian citizens could stay south of the border.

The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, introduced by Reps. Elise Stefanik, Laurel Lee (R-Fla.) and Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), seeks to increase the length of stay for Canadian citizens older than 50 who own or lease a residence in the U.S. from 182 to 240 days annually.

“Our neighbors to the north provide more visits to the United States than any other country, and they are critically important to North Country tourism and industry,” said Stefanik. “Providing Canadians who own homes and property in the United States with extra time to visit and boost our economy will help revive Canadian tourism to the United States.”

The legislation would also prohibit eligible individuals from working for U.S. employers or accessing public assistance programs and clarifies that they will retain their nonresident tax status.

"Canadian residents contribute billions of dollars each year to our small businesses, real estate markets, and local economies — especially here in Florida," Lee said. "By extending the time Canadian visitors who own or lease homes can spend here, we’re supporting job growth, strengthening our bond with our closest neighbors, and helping local communities thrive."