BILL SEEKS H1B EXEMPTION FOR THOSE WITH PHD IN SCIENCE, MATH

WASHINGTON: A bill has been re-introduced in the House of Representatives that seeks exemption for foreign- born persons with an American Ph.D. in science, technology, engineering or mathematics from the limits on the number of employmentbased green cards and H-1B visas awarded annually.

Introduced by Congressmen Erik Paulsen and Mike Quigley, the Stopping Trained in America Ph.Ds from Leaving the Economy (STAPLE) Act, is likely to benefit Indians given that they constitute the largest number of students doing PhD in the United States.

“It is no surprise that the brightest minds from around the world come to the United States 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 highskilled 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.