H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform: Protecting US Workers and Curbing Abuse.
This Act introduces significant changes to the H-1B and L-1 temporary work visa programs, primarily aiming to protect US workers from displacement and reduce fraud. It mandates higher minimum wages for visa holders, increases recruitment transparency, and significantly strengthens enforcement and penalties for non-compliant employers. These reforms ensure that these visas are reserved for truly high-skilled, unique roles.
Key points
Mandatory payment of the highest prevailing wage level for H-1B and L-1 workers to eliminate incentives for hiring based on lower labor costs.
Extension of the prohibition on displacing US workers (180 days before/after placement) to all employers using H-1B and L-1 visas.
Requirement for employers to post detailed job openings on a public Department of Labor website for 30 days, ensuring US workers have a fair chance to apply.
Stricter definitions for 'specialty occupation' (H-1B) and 'specialized knowledge' (L-1), ensuring these visas are reserved for truly high-skilled roles.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_979
Sponsor: Sen. Durbin, Richard J. [D-IL]
Process start date: 2023-03-27