Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a directive halting new H-1B visa petitions in all Texas state agencies and public universities. This freeze aims to investigate potential abuse of the federal visa program and prioritize job opportunities for Texans. Abbott emphasized the need for Texas jobs to benefit local workers and employers.
The freeze on new H-1B petitions applies to state agencies under gubernatorial appointees and public higher education institutions. Approval from the Texas Workforce Commission is required for any new H-1B petitions until the end of the Texas Legislature’s 90th Regular Session in May 2027. Agencies and universities must submit detailed reports by March 27, 2026, outlining their H-1B worker sponsorships and recruitment efforts for Texas candidates.
Governor Abbott’s directive aligns with ongoing federal reviews of the H-1B visa program to ensure American workers are prioritized. The move allows time for lawmakers to establish guidelines for future employment practices involving federal visa holders. Abbott’s concerns about the use of Texas taxpayer funds to employ H-1B visa holders in public schools and universities have prompted this action.
Abbott referenced President Donald Trump’s restrictions on certain nonimmigrant workers and emphasized that the H-1B program should complement, not replace, the US workforce. He criticized instances where employers allegedly overlooked qualified American workers in favor of foreign labor. The H-1B visa program, designed for specialty occupations requiring advanced skills, has been a focal point in immigration discussions at both state and federal levels.
