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FLORIDA - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has directed the state’s public universities to stop hiring international employees through the federal H-1B visa program, claiming the practice disadvantages qualified American workers.
The H-1B program allows U.S. employers to hire skilled foreign professionals for specialized positions that are difficult to fill domestically.
According to state data, nearly 400 foreign nationals currently work at Florida’s public universities under H-1B visas, with more than 7,000 holders statewide.
The University of Florida employs about 150 staff members through the program, followed by the University of South Florida with 72 and Florida State University with 69.
DeSantis said he has instructed the Florida Board of Governors to “pull the plug” on the practice, arguing that positions in fields like computer science, engineering, and chemistry should be filled by American graduates.
He cited examples of roles held by employees from China, Argentina, and Canada, stating that such jobs should remain available to Floridians.
However, legal experts note that states cannot revoke federal visas or terminate employees based on immigration status.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services maintains oversight of the H-1B program, meaning any enforcement action would likely face legal barriers.
University of Florida Interim President Donald Landry said the school would review its use of H-1B employees but emphasized that international hires often fill highly specialized positions.
Education leaders across the state warn that limiting H-1B hiring could impact research and innovation efforts within Florida’s universities.