Big setback to Indians as US increases H-1B visa scrutiny |
In an attempt to increase more opportunities for fellow Americans, President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive order that increases scrutiny of federal contractors` use of H-1B visas to bring in temporary foreign labor for high-skilled jobs rather than relying on American workers. President Trump barred federal agencies from dismissing U.S. citizens or green card holders and replacing them with foreign workers. The action was prompted by the federally owned Tennessee Valley Authority`s June announcement that it`s laying off 62 information technology workers as the federal power agency outsources data and programming work. The COVID -19 recession has thrown millions of Americans out of work, with uncertain prospects for a recovery given continued surges in virus case counts in many states. With the President running behind Democrat Joe Biden in polls ahead of November`s election, Trump`s move would showcase actions to support jobs. The administration also remains in talks with Democrats about extending extra jobless benefits. As per the officials, Trump`s new executive order requires federal agencies to give preference to U.S. residents and green card holders for contract positions, just as they would for full-time roles. The order also will prompt a study to determine how many federal jobs are held by foreign visa holders. However, experts believe that the Trump administration is working on other changes to the H-1B visa program that may be announced in the coming weeks.
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