Overview

• Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said he is directly involved in overhauling the H-1B program and green card system, calling the current H-1B setup a “scam.”
• The administration’s proposal would prioritize H-1B selections by earnings rather than a random lottery, with OIRA approval reported and Federal Register publication expected next.
• Lutnick is promoting a proposed ‘Gold Card’ offering permanent residency for a $5 million investment, claiming interest from about 250,000 potential applicants and $1.25 trillion in possible inflows.
• Analysts and outlets note Indian nationals—who receive roughly 70% of H-1B approvals—along with lower-paid and early‑career workers could be hardest hit, potentially pushing firms toward remote hiring or outsourcing.
• Political crosscurrents include Senator Mike Lee questioning whether H-1B issuance should be paused, even as President Trump reiterates support for keeping H-1B as a tool to bring in skilled talent; implementation could be targeted for the FY2027 cycle if finalized.