Florida Senator Rick Scott has introduced a bill, the 'Prioritizing American Talent Act', to end the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which serves as a pathway to the H-1B visa. Scott stated that Americans should have the first right to American Dreams and expressed pride in introducing the bill against OPT, which he claims allows employers to recruit foreigners under the guise of job training.
Details of the Proposal
Scott's proposal would prohibit the Department of Homeland Security from using funding to operate the OPT program. The proposal argues that employers receive a tax break for hiring graduates under this program, resulting in a double loss for the United States. The government funding of the program, according to Scott, essentially prevents Americans from getting hired.
"We need to make more jobs available for hardworking Americans, not foreign workers – including thousands from Communist China – who come over to exploit the system," Scott said. "That's why I'm proud to introduce the bill to end the Optional Practical Training Program, which has allowed employers to import foreign labor under the guise of job training, removing opportunities for American workers to get good jobs. We need to make sure that Americans who work hard and play by the rules still have the chance to live their American dream."
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training is a temporary work authorization that allows international students on an F-1 visa to gain practical work experience aligned with their field of study. STEM students can obtain an extension on OPT, and eventually, many of these trainees are hired by the company, which then files an H-1B petition for them. OPT is viewed as a pipeline for H-1B visas, leaving American graduates at a disadvantage.
"The OPT program is not authorized by federal law. Employers even receive a tax break for hiring foreign graduates under the program, giving foreigners an advantage over US citizens. Meanwhile, American graduates struggle to find employment in industries that those OPT permit holders take up," the senator stated.
Security Concerns
"By defunding the OPT program, more jobs will be available for American workers to help them achieve their American Dream. It also closes the door on threats posed by foreign adversaries working in American industries with access to innovative technology and sensitive data," Scott added.
4-Year Rule for F-1 Students
A new rule by the Department of Homeland Security limits the validity of an F-1 visa to four years. After four years, students must seek an extension and undergo biometrics and other processes. Although the DHS is not considering defunding the OPT program, this 4-year rule will disrupt the OPT programs of F-1 students. Currently, F-1 students can stay in the US as long as they maintain their student status and comply with visa terms.
