The U.S. Department of Labor reiterated on Friday the Trump administration's dedication to the "Americans First" agenda.
In a statement on X, the government agency emphasized its unwavering "commitment" to prioritizing native-born workers, promising new initiatives to boost employment, enhance training, and regulate labor migration programs.
The announcement outlines a series of efforts aimed at benefiting American workers, including the creation of more jobs for U.S. citizens, expanding access to vocational training programs, and ensuring workplace safety.
A key focus of the announcement is the ongoing campaign against alleged "fraud" within the H-1B visa program, which companies use to hire specialized foreign personnel.
The Department of Labor stated that through investigations and penalties, it aims to protect wages, recover unpaid dues, and "eliminate" what it describes as "widespread fraud" associated with these visas.
The statement also highlights goals such as fostering American innovation and "industrial dominance," while ensuring that jobs in the country "are secured" by American workers.
The declaration ends emphatically: "Americans must always come first."
In September, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on each H-1B visa application, a move that directly affected the tech industry and employers reliant on highly skilled foreign talent.
The H-1B visa program issues 85,000 slots annually (65,000 general and 20,000 additional for postgraduates). It grants a three-year work permit, with an option to renew for another three years.
The administration argues that this reform encourages hiring and training Americans before resorting to foreign labor.
Understanding the Impact of Trump's "Americans First" Policy
What is the main goal of the "Americans First" agenda?
The primary aim is to prioritize U.S.-born workers by creating more jobs for them, enhancing training programs, and regulating labor migration to ensure that American workers benefit first.
How does the administration plan to tackle H-1B visa fraud?
The Department of Labor plans to address H-1B visa fraud through thorough investigations and imposing penalties to protect wages, recover unpaid wages, and eliminate fraudulent practices.
What impact does the $100,000 H-1B visa fee have?
The fee significantly impacts the tech industry and other sectors that rely on highly skilled foreign workers, potentially discouraging companies from hiring foreign talent.