Governor’s Proposal

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced a proposed plan to ban public schools from hiring H-1B visa holders. Speaking in Austin, Abbott stated his intention to call for legislation that would prohibit any H-1B employees in public schools. He expressed concerns about ‘indoctrination in the classroom’ and asserted that the educational standards are being compromised by foreign influence. Abbott emphasized that foreign influence should have no place in Texas classrooms.

Understanding H-1B Visas

The H-1B visa program permits U.S. employers to hire foreign workers for specialty occupations, typically requiring at least a bachelor’s degree. These fields often include technology, engineering, and healthcare. Under the Trump administration, the program faced criticism from Republican lawmakers. They claimed it allowed employers to undercut American workers and wages. There has been increased scrutiny regarding employment-based immigration due to concerns about visa fraud, labor violations, and the need to protect U.S. and foreign workers.

Despite controversies, demand for H-1B visas continues. On July 17, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced reaching the fiscal year 2027 cap, which includes 65,000 regular and 20,000 advanced degree exemption H-1B visas. Supporters argue the program aids employers in filling high-skill jobs, especially when qualified U.S. workers are unavailable.

Impact on Texas Schools

The proposed ban could impact hundreds of H-1B visa holders currently teaching in Texas public schools. Texas, renowned for its sponsorship of H-1B visas, relies on them heavily for bilingual educators, STEM teachers, and instructors in rural and high-needs areas. For example, the Dallas Independent School District employs 171 H-1B holders, the most of any Texas public school or university.

Proponents of the H-1B program argue it helps alleviate teacher shortages and fills positions that remain open despite attempts to recruit domestically. This move follows Abbott’s January order to freeze new H-1B petitions, intended to prioritize hiring Texans for taxpayer-funded jobs.

Governor’s Broader Educational Concerns

During the press conference, Abbott also addressed concerns about student screen time and external influences on education. He stated the need to oversee not only the development of students’ reading skills but also the content they engage with. Abbott stressed that policies affecting education should be under the jurisdiction of state lawmakers.

Next Steps

For Abbott’s proposal to take effect, the Texas Legislature must enact the required legislation. Their next session is set for 2027. If passed, Texas could become the first state in the U.S. to prohibit school districts from employing teachers through the federal H-1B program.