Representative Chip Roy has introduced a significant bill entitled the “American White-Collar Worker Jobs Act of 2026.” This legislation aims to fundamentally reform the H-1B visa program and the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. The proposed changes focus on prioritizing job opportunities for American workers, particularly in STEM fields.
Key Provisions of the American White-Collar Worker Jobs Act
The lawmaker’s proposed bill includes several notable provisions. Among them:
- Ending the use of H-1B visas for permanent residency pathways.
- Eliminating the OPT program currently available to international students.
- Replacing the existing lottery system for visa issuance with a wage-based selection process.
- Requiring employers to show a genuine effort to hire American workers before seeking H-1B visas.
- Preventing companies that have recently laid off employees from hiring H-1B workers.
Context and Support for the Bill
Roy’s efforts are supported by his Republican colleague, Representative Eli Crane, who emphasizes the need for reform. According to Crane, the current H-1B visa system has allowed employers to bypass qualified American candidates in favor of cheaper labor. He stated, “It’s time to end this lottery-based pipeline and replace it with a system that prioritizes merit.”
Legislative Background
This bill builds on Crane’s previously introduced End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026. That act proposed a three-year pause on H-1B visa issuances followed by comprehensive reforms to restore the program’s integrity.
Roy also shared insights into the historical context of the H-1B program. Over the past forty years, he believes it has frequently been misused by employers, adversely affecting American workers. He argued for the need for congress to act in protecting U.S. jobs.
Objectives of the Reform
The overarching goal of the American White-Collar Worker Jobs Act is to ensure that American workers are prioritized in the labor market. The proposed legislation aims to implement a fair and equitable hiring process by fortifying regulations around H-1B visas.
As this bill moves forward in Congress, supporters are hopeful for wide backing as part of an effort to secure American jobs against the backdrop of global competition.
