Texas Gov. Abbott Halts New H-1B Visa Petitions for State Agencies, Universities

• Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered state agencies and public universities to pause new H-1B visa petitions until May 31, 2027.
• The order allows exceptions with permission from the Texas Workforce Commission and aims to give lawmakers time to establish statutory guardrails.
• Critics argue H-1B visas take jobs from Americans, while supporters emphasize their role in attracting global talent and driving innovation.
• University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas has the most H-1B visa holders among state universities with 228.
• Abbott is reviewing the program's use and has requested data on current H-1B visa holders, job titles, and countries of origin.

Why It Matters: Texas Gov. Abbott freezes new H-1B visa petitions for state entities, citing job protection for Texans.