The H-1B visa program, which allows U.S. companies to employ skilled foreign workers, became a source of contention within the President-Elect’s (and now President’s) political base in recent weeks. While tech companies argue that these visas are essential to innovation by filling specialized roles, critics claim H-1B undermines their own America First (and Americans First) approach to things. The President recently called the program “great” and acknowledged his own use of H-1B visas for his properties. The Department of Homeland Security’s H-1B final rule became effective on January 17, and attempts to modernize and streamline the program.
Business Takeaway: Unsurprisingly, this disagreement has been fueled by misinformation and misunderstanding by many as to the purpose of the program, as well as the ways in which it is typically used and, in other cases, abused. As the President tried to introduce changes to the program in his first term, anticipate more to come this time around. Contact us at 414-446-8800 or info@goldsteinsc.com if you have questions regarding the H-1B program related to your business.