Governor Greg Abbott has instructed all Texas state agencies and universities to halt new H-1B visa petitions and to review their current use of the program. The directive comes in response to recent reports of misuse within the federal H-1B visa system.
“The economy of Texas should work for the benefit of Texas workers and Texas employers,” Abbott stated in his order. “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.”
The governor’s letter further emphasizes that positions supported by public funds should prioritize local hiring.
