United StatesOrder directs closer H-1B checks when employers lay off workers
Federal officials would consider employers’ layoffs in H-1B decisions, which could affect skilled workers and the companies seeking to hire them.
What it does
State, Labor, and Homeland Security must consult Commerce, Education, and the Small Business Administration while processing H-1B applications, petitions, and visas.
Officials must consider whether an H-1B sponsor laid off similar U.S. workers in the past year or plans layoffs that would hurt their employment.
Within 30 days, Labor must start reviewing past applications to decide whether further action against sponsoring employers is warranted.
Argument forMore agency coordination could help identify applications that do not meet program rules and protect U.S. workers.
Argument againstConsidering an employer’s layoffs could add uncertainty for H-1B applicants and employers during visa decisions.
Where do you stand?
Choose your position
Where it stands
- Signed
- Published
History
- 2026
- Sep 23Published in the Federal RegisterPublished
- Sep 18Signed by President Donald TrumpSigned
ImmigrationEconomy & JobsNational Security