Texas Governor Abbott Proposes Ban on H-1B Visas for Foreign Teachers in Public Schools

Texas Governor Greg Abbott is pushing for legislation to prevent public schools from sponsoring H-1B visas for foreign workers, citing concerns about "foreign influence" in the state's education system.

During a campaign event in Austin, Abbott declared his intention to ensure "exactly zero" K-12 public school employees are hired under H-1B visas. "There must be zero foreign influence in the education of our children," his office stated in a press release. Abbott's proposal aims to "close the door on foreign funding, materials, and collaborations in our elementary and secondary schools."

“

It must be zero foreign influence in the education of our children.

While universities and health institutions typically employ the majority of H-1B visa holders in the education sector, some Texas school districts use these visas to fill critical positions, such as bilingual teaching roles. Data from the National Education Association shows Texas school districts have registered more educators with H-1B approvals than any other state.

“

My proposal will close the door on foreign funding, materials, and collaborations in our elementary and secondary schools.

For the proposed ban to take effect, the Texas Legislature must approve it in its upcoming session. Abbott's stance on these visas is not new; he previously ordered state agencies and public universities to freeze new H-1B petitions in January while reviewing program usage at state-funded institutions, though that order did not extend to K-12 schools.

Abbott justified his proposal by stating the federal government has failed to set limits on H-1B program entrants, forcing Texas to make "difficult decisions." This legislative announcement aligns with policies from the Trump administration, which has previously criticized H-1B visa holders.

“

difficult decisions