By Kavita Mistry 
As debates intensify around the future of H-1B visas and the rising cost of hiring skilled foreign workers, US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has reintroduced the High-Skilled Immigration Reform for Employment (HIRE) Act, proposing a major overhaul that could reshape America’s tech-driven economy. The Bill seeks to double the number of available H-1B visas—from 65,000 to 1,30,000—at a time when immigration policies are under fierce scrutiny.
A Dual Approach: More Skilled Workers + Stronger STEM Funding
The HIRE Act adopts a two-pronged strategy to address the growing talent shortage in the United States:
1. Expand the Skilled Workforce
- Increase annual H-1B visas to 1,30,000
- Remove the cap of 20,000 additional visas for advanced US degree holders
- Ensure critical industries—AI, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity—have access to global talent
Krishnamoorthi argues that the US must continue attracting world-class professionals to sustain innovation and competitiveness.
2. Strengthen America’s Domestic Talent Pipeline
- Federal funding for STEM programs in US elementary and secondary schools
- Long-term plan to boost home-grown engineers, scientists, and technologists
According to the Congressman, America can only lead global innovation if it balances both international talent and domestic workforce development.
Why the H-1B Debate Is Intensifying
Under the Trump administration, immigration has again become a polarising political flashpoint. The H-1B programme, in particular, has been criticised by sections of the President’s base.
Key developments include:
- A dramatic increase in H-1B hiring fees—up to $100,000 annually
- Claims by the administration that the system is being used to replace American workers
- Rising political pressure to restrict foreign labour
Government statements describe H-1B misuse as a national security and economic threat. Meanwhile, critics argue that tightening the programme risks harming the innovation ecosystem that relies heavily on skilled migrants.
Indian Workers at the Center of the Storm
Indian professionals remain the largest beneficiaries of the H-1B programme:
- 72% of all H-1B visas in 2022–23 went to Indian nationals
- For nearly a decade, India has consistently accounted for over 70% of approved petitions
Recently, a US diplomat sparked controversy by alleging large-scale fraud in H-1B filings by Indian applicants—claims that Indian industry leaders have strongly rejected.
Will the HIRE Act Pass?
With immigration emerging as a major election-year issue, the Bill faces political headwinds. However, support from ITServe Alliance and global tech companies keeps hope alive for reform.
If passed, the HIRE Act could reshape America’s skilled immigration landscape—impacting workers, tech companies, and global competitiveness.