A new Republican-led initiative in Washington is set to challenge one of the most controversial U.S. visa programs. Representative Greg Steube unveiled the EXILE Act, formally known as the Ending Exploitative Imported Labor Exemptions Act, aiming to terminate the H-1B visa system that brings in foreign tech talent.
Steube’s office claims the program disadvantages American workers by favoring cheaper overseas labor. ‘Our employees and young people are being displaced and disempowered by the H-1B visa program, which benefits companies and foreign competitors at the cost of our workforce,’ the congressman declared.
Under the bill, amendments to the Immigration and Nationality Act would reduce H-1B visas to zero annually from 2027 onward, effectively ending the program. This targets visas issued to specialists in high-demand fields such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance.
Steube passionately argued, ‘We must secure the American Dream for our kids instead of giving it away to non-citizens. I’m introducing the EXILE Act to prioritize working Americans once again.’
Statistics shared by his team note that Indians and Chinese nationals dominate H-1B approvals, comprising over 80% of recipients, with a preference for younger hires. This has fueled accusations of wage suppression and job theft from U.S. graduates.
Launched decades ago to fill skill gaps, H-1B has evolved into a lifeline for global professionals but a political lightning rod. Proponents say it fuels innovation; opponents decry it as corporate welfare.
As this legislation gains traction, industry leaders from Silicon Valley to Wall Street brace for potential disruptions. The debate underscores deeper tensions in U.S. immigration policy, pitting economic growth against citizen-first priorities. Will the EXILE Act pass? Congress holds the key.