Is the US Justice Department Investigating H-1B Visa Misuse?
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Synopsis
The US Department of Justice has launched an investigation into the H-1B visa program, scrutinizing hiring practices and calling for reports on discrimination against American workers. With the involvement of key figures like Harmeet Dhillon, this initiative aims to address concerns over foreign workers potentially displacing US citizens in competitive job markets.
Key Takeaways
- The US DoJ is investigating the H-1B visa program.
- Americans are encouraged to report unfair hiring practices.
- Indian workers make up over 70% of H-1B approvals.
- Proposed changes may eliminate the lottery system.
- New visa restrictions for international students are also being introduced.
Washington, Aug 30 (NationPress) The US Department of Justice (DoJ) has ramped up its examination of employment practices associated with the H-1B visa program. The department is urging both workers and employers to report any cases where American citizens are unjustly sidelined in favor of foreign visa holders.
Leading this initiative is Harmeet Dhillon, the India-born Assistant Attorney General of Civil Rights at the DoJ, who was appointed by US President Donald Trump shortly after his electoral victory in December.
On Thursday, Dhillon revealed that the department has launched “multiple” investigations and has already taken action against “certain” employers. “We want to hear from you,” she encouraged Americans to contact the DoJ hotline.
The H-1B program, which is limited to 85,000 new visas each year, enables US businesses to recruit skilled foreign professionals in sectors such as technology and engineering. However, critics, including US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, argue that it allows outsourcing firms to lower wages and displace American workers.
In a conversation with Fox News on Tuesday, Lutnick described the ongoing H-1B visa system as “a scam” and urged US companies to focus on hiring “American workers.” Lutnick also mentioned that he is “working on changes” to the system. Similarly, DeSantis expressed comparable concerns, labeling the program a “cottage industry.”
The Department of Homeland Security has also proposed modifications to the existing system, suggesting the elimination of the lottery setup in favor of a “weighted selection process.”
Each year, Indian workers constitute over 70 percent of H-1B visa approvals, largely due to a significant backlog in applications and a high volume of skilled immigrants from India.
In a related development on Wednesday, the Trump administration unveiled new measures to limit visas for international students by introducing a four-year cap.
India remains the largest source of international students in the United States, with over 330,000 expected to arrive in 2024, followed by China.
Point of View
I believe it is crucial for the United States to maintain a balanced perspective on immigration and labor. The ongoing investigations into the H-1B visa program highlight valid concerns about American workers' rights and the need for fair employment practices. However, we must also recognize the contributions of skilled immigrants to our economy.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the H-1B visa program?
The H-1B visa program allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialized fields, with an annual cap of 85,000 new visas.
Why is the US Department of Justice investigating the H-1B visa program?
The investigation aims to address reports of unfair hiring practices that disadvantage American citizens in favor of foreign visa holders.
Who is leading the investigation?
The initiative is led by Harmeet Dhillon, the Assistant Attorney General of Civil Rights at the Department of Justice.
What changes to the H-1B program are being proposed?
The Department of Homeland Security has suggested replacing the lottery system with a weighted selection process.
How does the H-1B program affect American workers?
Critics argue that the program can depress wages and displace American workers in skilled job sectors.
