Florida bans H-1B hiring in state universities, DeSantis orders jobs for Americans first

In a sweeping new directive that could reshape higher education hiring, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has banned the use of H-1B visas across all state universities, ordering institutions to hire American citizens and Florida residents instead of foreign workers.

“Universities across the country are importing foreign workers on H-1B visas instead of hiring Americans who are qualified and available to do the job,” DeSantis said on Wednesday. “We will not tolerate H-1B abuse in Florida institutions. That’s why I have directed the Florida Board of Governors to end this practice.” Advertisement

DeSantis said the decision followed state audits revealing that several Florida colleges had hired staff from China and other countries for positions ranging from professors to policy speakers. “Why