Washington, February 10: A Republican representative has introduced a new bill aimed at terminating the H-1B visa program in the United States. The representative argues that this program prioritizes foreign workers over American citizens, causing harm to local job seekers.
U.S. Representative Greg Steube announced the legislation, titled the “Ending Exploitative Imported Labor Exemptions Act,” commonly referred to as the Exile Act.
The proposed law seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to completely abolish the H-1B visa program. Under the current system, American companies can hire foreign employees in specialized fields such as technology, engineering, medicine, and finance.
Steube stated, “Prioritizing foreign workers over the well-being and prosperity of American citizens undermines our values and national interests. Our workers and youth are continuously displaced and disenfranchised by the H-1B visa program, benefiting companies and foreign competitors at the expense of our workforce.”
He further emphasized, “We cannot safeguard the American dream for our children while continuously giving their opportunities to non-citizens. Therefore, I am introducing the Exile Act to prioritize working Americans once again.”
Information released by his office indicates that if enacted, the bill would completely eliminate the H-1B visa program. It also notes that over 80% of H-1B visa recipients are Indian or Chinese nationals, often favoring younger employees.
The draft legislation states that starting in 2027, the number of H-1B visas issued each fiscal year will be reduced to zero, effectively ending the program.
Originally, the H-1B visa program was established to allow highly skilled foreign professionals to work in the U.S. Over time, it has become a significant pathway for professionals from countries like India and China to work in America. However, it has also been a contentious topic in ongoing political debates regarding jobs, wages, and immigration policy.
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