Trump Administration Toughens Stance on H-1B Visas and American Workers’ Rights

The Trump administration is intensifying its scrutiny of H-1B visa practices. Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling is focusing on addressing alleged misuse of the program. The goal is to ensure fair opportunities for U.S. workers. Sonderling emphasizes that some companies have been reducing job prospects for American citizens. This crackdown aims to prioritize domestic hiring, especially in major tech firms.

A significant development involves Instacart, a popular grocery delivery service, which has settled with the Department of Justice (DOJ) for several million dollars. The company faced allegations of discriminating against American workers. These accusations involve breaching the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII).

The DOJ revealed that Instacart’s practices deviated significantly from standard procedures. American applicants were reportedly required to mail applications, unlike usual electronic submissions. This occurred from December 2023 to February 2026. Such actions were seen as unnecessary hurdles for local job seekers.

“This significant resolution marks the 15th settlement agreement the Civil Rights Division has reached under my leadership to protect U.S. workers,” Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon stated. The settlement demonstrates the commitment to holding companies accountable for preferring temporary visa holders over American workers.

The settlement includes a $4 million compensation fund and $1 million in civil penalties. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) supported this resolution. The EEOC’s mission, dubbed “Project Firewall,” aims to tackle discrimination and improper hiring practices.

The Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) process is designed for businesses sponsoring foreign workers for permanent residence. Employers must demonstrate genuine attempts to hire U.S. citizens first. Companies can’t impose extra burdens or discriminatory job postings against American applicants.

This settlement aligns with 14 prior agreements achieved since Trump began his second term in January 2025. It is part of a broader initiative to protect the workforce rights of U.S. citizens.

Instacart responded positively to resolving the issue, stating their commitment to being a U.S.-based technology platform that prioritizes American workers. The company maintains that its practices complied with laws and regulations, but welcomed settling the matter to continue focusing on their services.

Peter D’Abrosca reports on politics for Fox News Digital, shedding light on such impactful issues.