Atlanta, Georgia, USA: Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has introduced legislation aimed at terminating the H-1B visa program, arguing that it displaces American workers and should not lead to permanent residency.
The proposed bill comes shortly after former President Donald Trump emphasized the importance of bringing skilled professionals from abroad to fill specialized positions, a statement that sparked strong reactions among his MAGA supporters online.
In a video shared on X, Greene stated, “I am putting forward a bill to fully eliminate the H-1B visa program, which has long been plagued by fraud and misuse, resulting in the replacement of American workers.”
Greene emphasized that the visas were intended as temporary solutions and criticized the long-term residency of visa holders. “These visas were meant to meet short-term, specialized labor needs. People should not be allowed to remain here indefinitely,” she said.
The legislation would remove the path to U.S. citizenship for H-1B visa holders, requiring them to return to their home countries once their visas expire. Greene added, “We appreciate their skills, but it is fair that they return home after their work here is done. My bill ensures visa holders go back when their visa ends.”
However, the bill does include an exemption for up to 10,000 visas annually for medical professionals, such as doctors and nurses, for a ten-year period. This measure is intended to give the U.S. healthcare system time to develop enough domestic professionals to meet demand. Additionally, non-citizen medical students would be barred from participating in Medicare-funded residency programs under this proposal.
Greene criticized the current system, highlighting that last year more than 9,000 American medical graduates were unable to secure residency placements, while over 5,000 foreign-born doctors filled residency spots. “This situation disadvantages American graduates and prioritizes foreign workers over U.S. citizens,” she said.
If enacted, the legislation would significantly reshape immigration policies, potentially benefiting American citizens in the workforce. However, experts are raising concerns about its possible long-term effects on the U.S. economy.
