Rep. Shri Thanedar Introduces The Keep STEM Graduates In America Act
Washington, DC - July 12th, 2024 - Congressman Shri Thanedar, representing Michigan's 13th Congressional District, introduced H.R. 9023, the Keep STEM Graduates in America Act, a crucial piece of legislation encouraging promising young students to stay in the US after their studies. The Keep STEM Graduates in American Act proposes 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.
The Congress found that foreign students pursuing an education in technology and the sciences have significantly contributed to overall innovation and growth in the U.S. Congressman Thanedar has placed heavy emphasis on the visa process for STEM graduates, thus placing hardworking, merited students at the forefront of his efforts.
Congressman Thanedar used his personal experience to affirm the importance of this legislation: “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.” Representative Thanedar explained how the Keep STEM Graduates in America Act does that, saying, “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 acknowledges the worries and troubles associated with acquiring an H1-B visa post-graduation with tight, strict deadlines in place. “Deadlines dictating a student’s stay in the country is troublesome,” said Congressman Thanedar. “That is precisely why I’m proposing a revision with respect to extensions.”
The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies voiced support for the legislation: “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.”
Congressman Thanedar believes every student deserves considerable time to find employment and determine which workspace works best for them. “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.”