U.S. lawmaker introduces bill to end H1B visa program

A U.S. lawmaker has introduced a bill aimed at abolishing the H-1B visa program, which has been a significant pathway for skilled foreign workers, including many from India, to secure employment in the United States. This legislative move comes amid heightened scrutiny of visa policies, including a recent initiative by the State Department that began on December 15, which involves rigorous screening of H-1B and H-4 visa applicants. The new vetting process includes an examination of applicants' social media profiles, raising concerns about privacy and the impact on potential immigrants. The proposed bill is likely to intensify the ongoing debate in the U.S. concerning immigration reform, with various stakeholders voicing divergent opinions on the economic implications of ending the H-1B program. Proponents argue that the program has been exploited by companies to displace American workers, while opponents highlight its critical role in filling skills gaps in the U.S. job market. As the global economy becomes increasingly interconnected, the future of the H-1B visa remains a pivotal issue for both American businesses and foreign professionals, particularly those from India who constitute a significant portion of H-1B visa holders.