A bill inspired by a Bethlehem resident is on its way to the White House.

The Senate has approved a bill introduced by Senator Pat Toomey and Congressman Charlie Dent.

They did it on behalf of George Bou Jaoudeh.

He's been trying to become a U.S. citizen since 2005, according to the Express-Times newspaper.

The bill allows green card holders who are federal employees -- like Bou Jaoudeh -- to count their employment period toward naturalization.

Bou Jaoudeh couldn't meet the regular residency requirements because he was working overseas at U.S. embassies.