Summary
Several states led by Republicans are limiting the hiring of foreign workers through H-1B visas at public universities and state agencies. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has frozen new H-1B petitions until May 31, 2027, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stopped H-1B hiring at public universities. Governors say the aim is to prioritize jobs for U.S. workers.
Key Facts
- Texas and Florida are restricting H-1B visa use for hiring at state agencies and public universities.
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott's freeze on H-1B petitions lasts until May 31, 2027.
- Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis ended H-1B hiring at public universities.
- The H-1B visa allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty jobs.
- Texas officials said the freeze aims to prioritize employment for U.S. workers.
- Abbott requires detailed reports on H-1B visa use by March 2026.
- Current H-1B holders and public K-12 schools are not affected by the freeze.
