Bill seeking H-1B limits exemption for foreigners with US PhD introduced

Washington, May 27 : A Bill has been re-introduced in the House of Representatives that seeks exemption for foreign-born persons with an American PhD in science, technology, engineering or mathematics from the limits on the number of employment-based green cards and H-1B visas awarded annually.Introduced by Congressmen Erik Paulsen and Mike Quigley, the Stopping Trained in America PhDs from the Leaving the Economy (STAPLE) Act, is likely to benefit Indians, given that they constitute the largest number of students doing PhD in the US.
“It is no surprise that the brightest minds from around the world come to the US to pursue their advanced degrees, and we should be doing all we can to ensure students we educate and train here use what they’ve learned to contribute to the American economy,” said Congressman Erik Paulsen.
“With thousands of high-skilled jobs going unfilled, the STAPLE Act makes sure American companies are getting the talent they need. By stapling a green card or (a) visa to their diplomas, these professionals can invent and innovate new discoveries that grow our economy,” Paulsen said.
Quigley, in his remarks, said if the US was serious about fostering innovation, spurring economic activity, and staying competitive in the global marketplace, it must encourage the brightest minds in the world to study, work, and stay in its communities. “We cannot advance our technology or research if we continue sending foreign-born, but US educated, students with advanced degrees away,” he said.