Congressman Shri Thanedar (D-Michigan) has introduced H.R. 9023, the “Keep STEM Graduates in America Act,” aimed at encouraging talented young students to remain in the United States post study completion.
The Act recommends “reforms to the H-1B visa process and raises the number of available visas each year to make staying in the United States more accessible for individuals capable of contributing to our industry and economy,” noted a statement from Congressman Thanedar’s office.
The bill acknowledges the substantial contributions of foreign students in technology and science to American innovation and growth, the statement said adding Congressman Thanedar has been focusing on improving the visa process for STEM graduates, prioritizing hardworking and deserving students.
“As an immigrant whose educational opportunities in the US shaped all the subsequent opportunities I received, I understand the importance of keeping our most gifted students in the country,” said Congressman Thanedar. “By expanding the availability of H-1B visas and making the process to obtain one more simple, we take an important and tangible step towards a future where those students with the most potential to innovate will innovate in the US.”
Congressman Thanedar acknowledged the difficulties of obtaining H1-B visa after graduation due to strict deadlines.
He added, “Deadlines dictating a student’s stay in the country is troublesome. That is precisely why I’m proposing a revision with respect to extensions,” while noting, “This bill is just one of many that I support because they bring us closer to a more equitable world while creating a more robust economy to the benefit of Americans and Michiganders.”
The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies that supported the legislation said, “We thank Congressman Thanedar for introducing this very important bill to retain US-trained STEM graduates. About 300,000 Indian students and millions of foreign students will benefit from this bill. It’s a crucial bill as in the tough job market, they need more time to find appropriate opportunities to contribute to the US economy.”
