Abbott Freezes H-1B Hiring at Texas Universities

The Texas governor’s letter to state agency heads also requires them to disclose information about existing H-1B status workers.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks during a news conference in the State Capitol in Austin on Aug. 15, 2025. Brandon Bell/Getty Images

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Jan. 27 that he has directed his state’s government agencies and public universities to cease any H-1B petitions for foreign workers.

Abbott informed state agency heads of the decision in a letter asking them to provide information about current H-1B status workers and petitions.