Texas Governor Abbott proposes ban on H-1B workers and foreign funding in schools

Texas Governor Greg Abbott is proposing a ban on the use of H-1B visas to employ foreign workers in public schools and a prohibition on schools accepting foreign funding, gifts, or property. The proposal aims to limit foreign influence in K-12 education, with Abbott stating that student curricula should be shaped by policies approved by state lawmakers rather than external entities.

Abbott cited instances such as the Austin Independent School District accepting funds from Qatar to support Arabic language and cultural instruction, as well as programs involving Chinese government-backed entities. The Texas Public Policy Foundation supported the initiative, noting that current reporting requirements for foreign influence in K-12 education are insufficient compared to higher education standards.