Florida Governor Ron DeSantis instructed state universities to desist from hiring foreign workers on H-1B visas claiming that institutions funded by taxpayers should give preference to Floridians and American citizens for jobs. The order which was unveiled in a Wednesday press briefing, has sparked a national conversation on immigration, education and employment policy.
A New Hiring Rule for State Universities
Governor DeSantis announced that Florida universities will now no longer be allowed to hire employees on H-1B visas a federal initiative that enables international professionals to work in technical fields. “We have all the talent here in Florida,” he said, calling upon universities to use local or American applicants to fill positions.
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. We will not tolerate H-1B abuse in Florida institutions. That’s why I have directed the Florida Board of Governors to end this… pic.twitter.com/dw3n8Ho5BK
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) October 29, 2025
The move was prompted, DeSantis explained, after audits found a number of universities had recruited employees from nations such as China for teaching positions and administrative work.
Who is the Rationale Behind the Ban
The governor contended that depending on foreign labor was an embarrassment to the universities’ capacity to generate qualified graduates. “If our own schools can’t find the talent they’ve created, something’s amiss,” he said.
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DeSantis demanded that tax-supported schools should be focused on making the American workforce stronger instead of importing it. His administration holds that universities need to review their programs if they cannot get the students ready for jobs that are available.
Issues Regarding Misuse of H-1B Visa
It is stated by DeSantis’ office that universities have been employing H-1B employees in positions that do not necessarily demand highly specialized knowledge from assistant professors to swim coaches. Although private employers are restricted in their awarding of H-1B visas by the federal government, universities fall largely outside those limits, so they can employ foreign workers throughout the year. DeSantis contends that the loophole facilitates cheap labor imports at the cost of homegrown graduates.
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Accountability & Enforcement
The Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) will now be responsible for ensuring compliance with the order, in coordination with federal agencies and the State University System. The governor also indicated plans to steer funds away from some diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) grants to core academic programs, stating the action will restore emphasis on merit and performance.
Broader Message on Workforce Policy
DeSantis directive comes at a time when several major corporations are announcing layoffs. “We see thousands losing jobs in tech and logistics, yet we’re hiring abroad for university roles,” he said. “Florida’s universities must serve the American workforce not replace it.”
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Disclaimer: This article is based on public statements and reports. It does not represent endorsement or legal advice regarding immigration or employment policy.
