Florida Governor Moves to Ban H-1B Visa Hiring at State Universities

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has taken decisive action against the use of H-1B visas in the state’s public universities. He issued a directive on Wednesday, ordering the Florida Board of Governors to end the practice. The announcement was made during a press conference in Tampa.

The governor stated the move is intended to protect job opportunities for American graduates. He argued that state institutions should not be importing foreign specialty workers. This order represents a significant shift in hiring policy for Florida’s higher education system.

DeSantis Targets “Abuse” of H-1B Visa Program

Governor DeSantis was explicit in his reasoning. He claimed universities are using H-1B visas to hire cheap foreign labor. This practice, he said, comes at the expense of qualified American citizens.

He provided specific examples from a state audit. The audit found H-1B visa holders in roles like computer coordinators and assistant professors. It even identified an assistant swim coach from Spain on an H-1B visa.

According to Reuters, the governor questioned the necessity of these hires. He called a $40,000-a-year assistant athletic job a clear abuse of the visa system. DeSantis insists Florida’s own graduates should be first in line for these positions.

Impact on Florida’s Universities and Workforce

The immediate effect on university staffing remains unclear. Data from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services shows the potential scale. There are currently 677 H-1B beneficiaries employed in Florida’s education sector.

The University of Florida has the highest number with 156 beneficiaries. The University of Miami follows with 90. The University of South Florida has 72 such visa holders.

This policy change forces these institutions to reassess their hiring. They must now find qualified American workers for future specialized roles. The long-term impact on academic recruiting and specialized research programs is a key concern.

The new directive places Florida at the forefront of a national debate on skilled immigration. This H-1B visa ban signals a firm stance on prioritizing domestic workers. The policy’s success will be measured by how well state universities adapt to these new hiring constraints.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is the H-1B visa program?

The H-1B is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. These fields typically require theoretical or technical expertise. The program is common in technology, engineering, and academia.

Which Florida universities are most affected?

The University of Florida, with 156 H-1B beneficiaries, is the most affected. The University of Miami and University of South Florida are also significantly impacted. These institutions now face immediate hiring challenges for specialized roles.

How many workers will this policy affect?

USCIS data shows 677 H-1B beneficiaries in Florida’s education space. The policy prevents new hires using this visa. It does not automatically revoke existing visas, but their future renewal is now uncertain.

What was the reaction to this decision?

Reactions on social media were deeply divided. Some users applauded the move for prioritizing American workers. Others warned it could harm the academic quality and international standing of state universities.

Why did DeSantis make this decision now?

The order follows increased national scrutiny of the H-1B program. It aligns with broader efforts to tighten immigration rules. The governor framed it as a necessary step to curb program abuse.

Trusted Sources
Associated Press, Reuters, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)