Overview
- The US Department of Labor released a social‑media video alleging widespread H‑1B abuse and claiming young Americans had the “American Dream” stolen by foreign hires.
- The video highlights a pie chart showing India at roughly 72% of H‑1B approvals and promotes Project Firewall, which pledges enhanced audits to hold employers accountable and prioritize US workers.
- A September 19 proclamation imposed a $100,000 fee on new H‑1B petitions effective September 21, with later guidance indicating exemptions for certain extensions and changes of status.
- Representatives Jimmy Panetta, Ami Bera, Salud Carbajal, and Julie Johnson urged the President to suspend the order, warning of harms to US AI competitiveness and the US–India partnership.
- News reports say some employers have paused H‑1B sponsorships, and Florida has barred state universities from hiring on H‑1B visas, reflecting growing operational uncertainty.