Washington is buzzing with a provocative new proposal from GOP Rep. Greg Steube to dismantle the H-1B visa regime entirely. Branded the EXILE Act, this legislation charges that the program erodes American economic strength by elevating foreign labor above domestic workers.
Steube announced the bill, which would amend core immigration laws to eliminate H-1B allocations starting 2027. ‘This exploitative system disempowers U.S. employees and youth, propping up companies at our nation’s expense,’ he asserted.
H-1B visas empower U.S. firms to bring in experts for critical sectors like technology, engineering, healthcare, and banking. But detractors, including Steube, argue it fosters dependency on overseas talent while stifling local opportunities and wages.
In fiery remarks, Steube declared, ‘Prioritizing foreigners weakens our values. The EXILE Act puts working Americans first and safeguards the Dream for our children.’
Supporting data from his team indicates over 80% of visas awarded to India and China nationals, often prioritizing cost-effective young hires—a practice accused of undercutting U.S. professionals.
Intended as a bridge for rare skills, H-1B has transformed into a contentious gateway, fueling outrage over job losses, salary stagnation, and unchecked immigration.
This bold gambit reflects surging sentiment among Republicans to reclaim job markets for citizens. As the bill advances, expect fierce lobbying from tech hubs dependent on global talent. The outcome could redefine U.S. competitiveness in a knowledge-driven world.