Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Takes a Stand Against H1-B Visas

In a bold move, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced on Wednesday that he is directing the state’s higher education governing body, the Board of Governors, to prohibit state universities from employing foreign professionals holding H1-B visas. Speaking at a press conference in Tampa, DeSantis emphasized the need for a comprehensive halt to the use of H1-B visas, which allow foreign professionals to work temporarily in the U.S.

DeSantis’s Call for Change

DeSantis stated, “I am instructing the Florida Board of Governors to fully stop the use of H1-B visas in our universities. We can allow Floridians or Americans to fill these positions. If we can’t do that, we really need to reflect on what the problem is here.” He went on to list positions currently held by H1-B visa holders, including assistant professors, coaches, data analysts, and marketing personnel from countries such as the UK, China, Spain, Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, and Russia.

The Debate Over Professional Occupations

During his address, DeSantis expressed strong skepticism regarding the classification of these roles as “professional occupations.” This critique raises critical questions about the qualifications and labor markets within the state. As the debate unfolds, many are left wondering how this policy shift will affect Florida’s educational institutions and the diversity of its workforce.

The H1-B Landscape in Florida

According to data from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), as of June 30, 2025, there are over 1,900 employers in Florida sponsoring more than 7,200 H1-B visa holders. In the education sector alone, there are 78 employers that employ 677 visa holders. The University of Florida is the largest beneficiary with 156 H1-B holders, followed by the University of Miami with 90 and the University of South Florida with 72. Notably, these universities also serve as the state’s largest medical education institutions.

Implications of the Policy

While DeSantis claims this measure will bolster job opportunities for Americans, critics argue that it reflects an increasingly radical anti-immigration sentiment. For many Americans, the benefits of globalization seem distant, and such extreme ideologies may gain traction in this atmosphere of uncertainty.

A Reflection on Wealth and Responsibility

It is essential to recognize that the root causes of economic challenges are often linked to systemic issues and the concentration of wealth among the few. While billionaires amass substantial fortunes, the media narrative often shifts blame onto immigrants and foreign entities. This profound misunderstanding distorts the complexities of our socio-economic issues, leading to further polarization.

What Lies Ahead?

As we look to the future, this announcement marks just the beginning of DeSantis’s administration, with three more years ahead for potential policy changes. The question remains: who will follow in his footsteps? The move could signal a shift in national sentiment about immigration policies. As we navigate these changes, one can only hope that the focus remains on fostering inclusivity rather than division.

In a time when collaboration among nations has never been more critical, let us remain vigilant and aware of the broader implications of such policies. Together, we can encourage a dialogue that leads to understanding and progress for all. 🌍