US States Sue Trump Over H-1B Fee
Analysis based on 9 articles · First reported Dec 13, 2025 · Last updated Dec 13, 2025
The lawsuit challenges a significant increase in H-1B visa fees, which could impact the ability of US employers, particularly in healthcare and education, to hire skilled foreign workers. If the fee is upheld, it could exacerbate labor shortages in critical sectors, potentially affecting the operational efficiency and financial performance of institutions reliant on H-1B visa holders. Conversely, if the lawsuit is successful, it would alleviate these financial burdens and help maintain the flow of skilled talent into the United States.
Twenty US states, led by United States — California and United States — Massachusetts State Police, have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration challenging a new $100,000 fee imposed on H-1B visa petitions. The lawsuit targets a policy implemented by the United States — United States Department of Homeland Security, following a proclamation by Donald Trump on September 19, 2025. The states argue that the policy is unlawful, violates the Administrative Procedure Act and the US Constitution by bypassing required rulemaking, and exceeds congressional authority. They contend that the fee creates illegal financial burdens on public employers and other providers of vital services, worsening existing labor shortages in critical sectors such as education and healthcare. The H-1B program is crucial for skilled foreign workers, including many Indian professionals in technology, healthcare, and academic research. The states are seeking to block the policy and have it declared unconstitutional, emphasizing that only Congress has the power to make such substantial changes to immigration law.
Set up alerts, explore entity relationships, search across thousands of events, and build custom intelligence feeds.
Open Dashboard