Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered all state agencies and universities to halt new H-1B visa petitions and review their current use of the federal program. The directive follows recent reports of alleged misuse of the H-1B visa, which is intended to allow U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialized fields.
In his statement, Abbott emphasized that Texas jobs should prioritize local residents and businesses. “The economy of Texas should work for the benefit of Texas workers and Texas employers,” reads the directive. “In light of recent reports of abuse in the federal H-1B visa program, and amid the federal government’s ongoing review of that program to ensure American jobs are going to American workers, I am directing all state agencies to immediately freeze new H-1B visa petitions as outlined in this letter. State government must lead by example and ensure that employment opportunities — particularly those funded with taxpayer dollars — are filled by Texans first.”
Abbott’s action comes as the federal government also examines how the H-1B program is being used across states.
