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Texans, and Americans more broadly, will not have to compete with foreigners for jobs at the Lone Star state’s public universities – at least for the next year.
Governor Greg Abbott recently announced a freeze on the use of H-1B visas by public universities and other state government entities.
“The economy of Texas should work for the benefit of Texas workers and Texas employers,” Governor Abbott wrote in a letter on Tuesday.
He wrote further:
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 pause extends through May 31, 2027, although employers can petition the Texas Workforce Commission for an exception.
The governor also requested a report on how state agencies are currently using the visa system.
He provided further comments on X, writing: “Texas taxpayers invest billions to train our workforce. Those jobs should go to Texans.”
“Texas is the strongest economic engine in America,” Abbot wrote. “We’re going to keep it that way.”
The decision follows controversy surrounding the program.
“The pause in the red state, which is home to thousands of H-1B visa holders, comes amid actions by the Trump administration aimed at reshaping the visa program,” the Associated Press reported.
“Critics argue that it has become a pipeline for overseas workers willing to work for lower pay and is taking job opportunities from Americans,” the AP reported. “But supporters say the program is crucial to attract top global talent, fill specialized roles and drive innovation.”
At least one conservative commentator suggested Abbott’s move is a political ploy, though.
“As soon as Texans became aware that the reason their once close-knit communities changed overnight was because of H-1B visa abuse/fraud, and connected that to the governor’s office, Abbott feigns outrage,” Mary Rooke wrote on X.
“Surely there’s no connection to the fact that it’s an election year,” The Daily Caller commentator wrote.
Abbott is up for re-election this year.
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