Austin, TX, January 28, 2026
Governor Greg Abbott has announced a freeze on all new H-1B visa petitions at state agencies and public universities in Texas until May 31, 2027. The directive aims to allow time for Congress to reconsider federal immigration laws while focusing on local employment practices. This decision deeply affects institutions like the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, which rely on H-1B visa holders for specialized roles. Critics argue it may worsen staffing shortages, while supporters believe it will prioritize local talent.
Texas Governor Abbott Freezes New H-1B Visa Petitions
State agencies and universities to halt new applications until 2027
Austin, TX – Governor Greg Abbott has recently issued a significant directive to pause all new H-1B visa petitions at state agencies and public universities until May 31, 2027. This decision aims to foster a legislative focus on establishing regulations for employment practices related to federal visa holders in Texas while simultaneously allowing Congress time to reconsider federal immigration laws. Written permission from the Texas Workforce Commission may grant exceptions to this freeze.
This temporary freeze has substantial implications for key educational institutions that rely heavily on H-1B visa holders as a vital part of their workforce. Notably, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas employs 228 visa holders, while Texas A&M University boasts 214. Other institutions affected include the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center with 171 visa holders, the University of Texas at Austin with 169, and Texas Tech University with 143. These figures underscore the importance of these visa holders in specialized academic and medical roles.
Governor’s Reporting Mandates
As part of the new directive, state agencies and universities are required to submit comprehensive reports to the Texas Workforce Commission by March 27, 2026. Reports must detail the number of new or renewed H-1B visa petitions filed in 2025, the current visa holders, their job titles, countries of origin, and the expiration dates of their visas. Furthermore, these institutions must demonstrate their commitment to providing qualified Texans with a reasonable chance to apply for positions currently occupied by H-1B visa holders.
Debate Over the Impacts of the Freeze
Critics of the freeze, such as Democratic Representative Ramon Romero Jr., express apprehension that this decision could aggravate existing staffing shortages and hinder critical public services, impacting schools, research centers, and public health sectors across Texas. A shortage of qualified professionals could ultimately raise operational costs and strain the quality of these services.
Conversely, proponents of the directive argue that it is essential for attracting top global talent, filling specialized roles within the local economy, and fostering innovation. By prioritizing local talent, supporters believe Texas can build a more resilient workforce, a theme that resonates with many who advocate for reduced regulatory barriers to encourage small business and entrepreneurial growth.
National Context and Similar State Actions
This action aligns with broader Republican initiatives to limit the use of H-1B visas, a trend mirrored in states like Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis has also pursued measures to tighten access to these visas for non-specialized roles. Established by the Immigration Act of 1990, the H-1B program was designed to help U.S. employers hire skilled foreign workers in specialized occupations requiring at least a bachelor’s degree. It’s essential to note that while some employers, such as universities and non-profits, are exempt from annual caps on these visas, most employers face limitations which have spurred ongoing discussions about the program’s efficacy and impact on domestic employment.
Ongoing Conversations in Texas
Governor Abbott’s recent directive represents a significant moment in the ongoing debates surrounding the H-1B visa program, spotlighting issues affecting the Texas labor market and overall economic landscape. While such measures aim to re-examine how Texas could develop a workforce strategy that emphasizes local talent, the potential consequences of this decision on essential sectors remain a point of contention.
Conclusion
The pause on new H-1B visa petitions posed by Governor Abbott signifies an important step in reshaping how Texas approaches labor shortages in specialized fields. As the state balances its regulatory environment to promote local employment opportunities while addressing staffing needs, the upcoming years will play a crucial role in determining the future of workforce dynamics in Texas. Community support for local initiatives and small businesses will be vital in fostering a robust economic landscape that benefits all Texans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the duration of the freeze on new H-1B visa petitions in Texas?
The freeze is scheduled to last until May 31, 2027, unless exceptions are granted by the Texas Workforce Commission.
Which institutions are affected by this freeze?
State agencies and public universities in Texas, including the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Texas A&M University, and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, are affected by this freeze.
What information must agencies and universities report to the Texas Workforce Commission?
Agencies and universities must report the number of new or renewed H-1B visa petitions filed in 2025, the number of current visa holders, job titles, countries of origin, visa expiration dates, and documentation showing efforts to offer qualified Texans a reasonable opportunity to apply for positions filled by H-1B visa holders.
Who is exempt from the annual caps on H-1B visas?
Employers such as universities and nonprofits are exempt from the annual caps on the number of H-1B visas issued.
What is the purpose of the H-1B visa program?
The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations that require at least a bachelor’s degree, addressing labor shortages in specialized fields.
Key Features of the H-1B Visa Freeze in Texas
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration of Freeze | Until May 31, 2027, unless exceptions are granted by the Texas Workforce Commission. |
| Affected Institutions | State agencies and public universities in Texas, including the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Texas A&M University, and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. |
| Reporting Requirements | Agencies and universities must report the number of new or renewed H-1B visa petitions filed in 2025, the number of current visa holders, job titles, countries of origin, visa expiration dates, and documentation showing efforts to offer qualified Texans a reasonable opportunity to apply for positions filled by H-1B visa holders. |
| Exemptions from Visa Caps | Employers such as universities and nonprofits are exempt from the annual caps on the number of H-1B visas issued. |
| Purpose of H-1B Visa Program | Allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations that require at least a bachelor’s degree, addressing labor shortages in specialized fields. |
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