Recent analysis of federal labor data reveals that H-1B labor filings have significantly increased in several Republican-held suburban congressional districts in Texas. This uptick contrasts sharply with a general decline in demand for the foreign-worker program across much of the United States between fiscal years 2019 and 2025. The findings were reported by Newsweek, highlighting a unique trend in Texas amidst broader national patterns.
A proposed $100,000 fee on certain new overseas H-1B petitions also faced legal challenges. The directive is scheduled to remain in effect through May 31, 2027, unless the Texas Workforce Commission grants written approval. Because it comes as the federal government has pursued changes to the H-1B system under President Donald Trump, the Texas growth is particularly notable.
The administration has moved to alter how H-1B selections are made, introduced additional screening requirements and proposed changes affecting workers who lose their jobs. Governor Greg Abbott ordered Texas state agencies and public universities to freeze the initiation and filing of new H-1B petitions. That order does not cover all private employers in Texas, meaning companies outside the state government and public university systems can continue to seek H-1B workers subject to federal rules.
