WASHINGTON: A prominent American lawmaker has criticised Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s order freezing new H-1B visa petitions at public universities and state agencies, calling it harmful to the state’s workforce and economy.
Congressman Marc Veasey said the decision would weaken Texas at a time when skilled labour and innovation are critical.
Abbott last month ordered state agencies and public universities to halt new H-1B visa petitions through the end of 2027 while his administration reviews the use of the federal program. He has said taxpayer-funded jobs should be filled by Texans first.