Texas Gov. Greg Abbott Halts H-1B Visas Through 2027 Amid Allegations of Worker Displacement

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a moratorium on new H-1B visa petitions by state agencies and public universities, citing reports of program abuse and the displacement of American workers by lower-paid foreign labor.

Abbott Cites “Egregious Schemes” in H-1B Visa Program

In a letter, Abbott wrote that U.S. workers have been allegedly displaced by H-1B employees, often at lower wages. “In the most egregious schemes, employers have even fired American workers and replaced them with H-1B employees, often at lower wages,” he stated. Abbott added that the program has been used to fill jobs that could have been filled by Texans, rather than its intended purpose of attracting the best and brightest individuals from around the world.

Pause in H-1B Visas to Allow for Reforms

The governor’s order will give state and federal officials time to enact reforms while Texas continues to invest in education and workforce training to meet labor demands without relying on the visa program. The move comes after President Donald Trump alleged in September that the visa program has been used to replace American workers, undermining both economic and national security.

Requirements for State Agencies and Public Universities

Abbott’s order requires state agencies and public universities to submit a report to the Texas Workforce Commission by March 27, detailing their H-1B filings, current visa holders, countries of origin, job classifications, visa expiration dates, and efforts to recruit qualified Texas residents.

Freeze to Remain in Effect Until 2027

The freeze on H-1B visas will remain in effect until May 31, 2027, unless approved in writing by the Texas Workforce Commission. The decision is seen as a significant move to address concerns over the abuse of the H-1B visa program and its impact on American workers.

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