A group of U.S. lawmakers has urged President Donald Trump to reconsider his recent proclamation limiting H-1B visas, warning that the decision could harm America’s leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) and its strategic relationship with India. The lawmakers highlighted that the newly imposed $100,000 fee and tightened restrictions on H-1B applicants will disadvantage U.S. innovation and economic competitiveness.
In a letter addressed to the President, Representatives Jimmy Panetta, Ami Bera, Salud Carbajal, and Julie Johnson requested the suspension of the order titled “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,” issued on September 19. They stressed that the H-1B program is vital not only for filling tech roles in the U.S. but also for nurturing strong international partnerships, particularly with India.
The lawmakers emphasized that Indian professionals, who made up 71% of all H-1B visa holders last year, play a crucial role in strengthening America’s capabilities in fields such as AI and IT. They argued that continued access to global high-skilled talent is essential as countries like China ramp up their investments in cutting-edge technologies.
Calling the H-1B program a key element of America’s strength in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the representatives pointed out that these professionals support innovation, drive patent filings, and contribute to economic growth without replacing U.S. workers. Congressman Panetta noted that the programme’s importance goes far beyond meeting labor demands, particularly in light of AI advancements.
They also cautioned that the significant fee hike could limit participation to only big corporations, excluding startups and research institutions that rely heavily on international talent. The lawmakers concluded that protecting the H-1B program is critical to maintaining global leadership in 21st-century industries and to preserving America’s relationship with key democratic allies like India.
H-1B visa, AI leadership, US-India partnership, STEM innovation, immigration policy
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