Wednesday, January 28, 2026-Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a directive freezing new H-1B visa petitions by state agencies and public universities, a move that immediately limits the hiring of highly skilled foreign workers in publicly funded roles.
The order halts new applications through May 31, 2027, unless special approval is granted, and requires agencies to submit detailed reports on current H-1B employees, including job roles and recruitment efforts aimed at Texas residents.
Abbott says the move is intended to prioritize jobs for Texans and ensure taxpayer-funded positions are filled locally whenever possible. Critics argue the freeze could intensify staffing shortages at universities, research institutions, hospitals, and technical departments that rely on specialized global talent. Many of these roles, they say, are difficult to fill domestically despite extensive recruitment efforts.
The decision lands amid heightened national debate over immigration and skilled-worker visas. By targeting the public sector, Texas is taking a more aggressive stance than many states, potentially reshaping how government institutions access global expertise. The policy could have lasting implications for research, innovation, and workforce planning across the state, while signaling a tougher approach that other states may soon consider.
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