Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered a significant pause. The order affects new H-1B visa petitions. State agencies and public universities must comply. This directive began January 27, 2026. It will last until May 31, 2027. This date marks the end of the legislative session.
Governor Abbott’s Directive Explained
Governor Abbott cited specific reasons for this action. He wants to prioritize Texas workers. These are jobs funded by taxpayer dollars. Abbott believes the H-1B program has seen abuse. He stated employers sometimes fail to seek qualified U.S. workers first. Some reports suggest American workers were fired. They were allegedly replaced by H-1B employees. The governor wants to ensure Texans get job opportunities first.
The freeze provides time for state lawmakers. They can establish new guidelines. These are often called “guardrails”. It also aligns with federal reforms. These reforms are pushed by the Trump administration. Agencies controlled by appointed heads are included. Public universities are also subject to the order. However, agencies led by elected officials are not affected. Private companies also remain exempt.
Reporting Requirements for State Entities
Institutions must now report detailed information. They must submit reports by March 2026. These reports cover current foreign workers. They include job titles and countries of origin. Agencies must also document efforts. They need to show attempts to recruit Texans for positions. The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) will review these reports. New petitions need TWC’s written permission.
Understanding the H-1B Visa Program
The H-1B visa is a federal program. It allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers. These workers must have specialized knowledge. They typically need at least a bachelor’s degree. The program aims to fill jobs with skills not readily available domestically.
In Texas, state universities and medical centers rely on H-1B visas. They use them to hire professors, researchers, and doctors. Many public school districts also use H-1B visas. This helps them address teacher shortages. For example, UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas sponsors many H-1B holders. Texas A&M University is another major sponsor. The Texas A&M System spent over $3.25 million on H-1B visas since 2020. Dallas ISD also employs many H-1B workers.
Criticisms and Potential Impacts
Critics argue Abbott’s decision could worsen staffing shortages. This is especially true in critical sectors. Healthcare and education face potential impacts [cite: initial context, 9, 12, 15]. The freeze might increase costs. It could also strain public services.
Universities worry about recruitment. They need international talent for innovation. Restricting H-1B visas could harm Texas’s competitiveness. It may weaken its innovation pipeline. Representative Ramon Romero Jr. voiced these concerns. He stated it makes staffing harder. This hurts Texans across the state.
Broader Context and Federal Influence
Governor Abbott’s move aligns with broader Republican sentiment. Many express concerns about the H-1B program. They argue it takes jobs from American workers. Some believe it depresses wages for others. The Trump administration has also scrutinized H-1B visas. It has introduced higher fees and stricter rules. For instance, a $100,000 fee was proposed for some petitions.
Other states are also reviewing H-1B use. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis previously directed its university system to curb H-1B use. These actions suggest a national trend. States are reassessing how foreign talent impacts domestic workforces. This ongoing debate centers on balancing global expertise with local employment needs.
Looking Ahead
The H-1B visa freeze will last through May 2027. This period allows Texas lawmakers to develop new policies. It also lets federal reforms take shape. The ultimate impact on Texas’s workforce remains to be seen. State institutions must navigate these new restrictions. The core debate continues. It pits the need for specialized global talent against the priority of employing Texans first.
