Washington, February 10 – In a bold move targeting immigration policies, Republican Representative Greg Steube has introduced legislation to completely eliminate the H-1B visa program. Steube argues that the program unfairly prioritizes foreign workers over American citizens, depriving locals of job opportunities and economic stability.
The proposed bill, dubbed the ‘Ending Exploitative Imported Labor Exemptions Act’ or EXILE Act, aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act. If passed, it would phase out H-1B visas entirely by setting the annual cap to zero starting in fiscal year 2027.
H-1B visas allow U.S. companies to hire skilled foreign professionals in fields like technology, engineering, medicine, and finance. However, Steube contends that this system undermines American workers. ‘Prioritizing foreign labor over the welfare and prosperity of U.S. citizens weakens our values and national interests,’ he stated.
Steube highlighted how the program displaces American employees and youth, benefiting corporations and foreign competitors at the expense of the domestic workforce. ‘We cannot preserve the American Dream for our children if we keep handing it over to non-citizens,’ he added, emphasizing the need to prioritize working Americans.
Data from Steube’s office reveals that over 80% of H-1B recipients are from India or China, often younger workers hired at lower wages. Critics of the program have long argued it suppresses salaries and displaces qualified U.S. talent.
Originally designed to attract specialized foreign expertise, the H-1B program has become a major pathway for professionals from countries like India and China. Yet, it remains a flashpoint in debates over jobs, wages, and immigration reform.
The EXILE Act’s introduction signals growing Republican pushback against what some call ‘imported labor exploitation.’ As the bill moves through Congress, it could reshape the U.S. tech and professional sectors, sparking intense bipartisan discussions on balancing global talent needs with protecting American jobs.