Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Jan 27: Texas governor Greg Abbott has said his administration is reviewing the employment of H-1B visa holders in the state’s public schools, universities and other taxpayer-funded institutions, raising questions about whether foreign workers are being hired for roles that could be filled by Texans.

Speaking on The Mark Davis Show on Monday, Abbott said his office has begun collecting data from public agencies to assess how extensively state funds are being used to pay H-1B visa holders. The review, he said, spans public schools, colleges, universities and other entities that rely on state funding.

“We have inquiries out right now to all of those agencies gathering the information that we need,” Abbott said, adding that the state hopes to announce an action plan later this week based on the findings. The administration is seeking details on how many H-1B workers are employed, the positions they hold, and the reasons cited for hiring them.

While acknowledging that the H-1B visa program is administered by the federal government, Abbott said Texas is examining what authority it may have when state money is involved. “This is a federal program, only a federal program. It’s not a state program,” he said, noting that the review is focused on identifying any leverage the state might have.

The governor questioned whether H-1B workers are being employed in positions that truly require specialized skills. “What job is it in our public schools in the State of Texas that these H-1B visa personnel are fulfilling that we can’t fulfill here in our own public schools?” Abbott said, adding that he sees little justification for such hires unless a unique skill set is involved.

Abbott also echoed conservative criticism of the H-1B system, suggesting there may be instances of misuse. He referred to reports of multiple visa holders being registered at the same address and said the program has been surrounded by “extraordinary controversy.” He further alleged that some individuals may have overstayed their visas or were inadequately vetted, particularly in recent years.

Linking the state’s review to broader immigration enforcement efforts, Abbott said Texas is in contact with the administration of President Donald Trump, who has made immigration a central policy focus. Depending on the outcome of the review, Abbott said Texas could urge federal authorities to take action against certain visa holders. “It may be that we’re having to call specifically on the Trump administration to withdraw them,” he said.
Abbott framed the review as part of a broader effort to protect jobs and ensure public safety. “We want to make sure that our communities are safe,” he said. “We want to make sure that our communities are not having people come in and take jobs that Texans can easily fill.”

The H-1B visa program allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations that typically require at least a bachelor’s degree. It is commonly used in sectors such as technology, healthcare, research and higher education, and has long been a subject of political debate. Critics argue the program can displace domestic workers or be used for non-specialized roles, while supporters maintain it is essential for addressing skill shortages and attracting global talent.