Federal Judge Strikes Down Trump’s $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee Rule
Federal judge voids Trump s 100 000 – In a landmark ruling, US District Judge Leo Sorokin overturned President Donald Trump’s mandate requiring a $100,000 application fee for H-1B visas, declaring the policy lacked legal backing. The decision, spanning 42 pages, centered on the argument that the president’s authority to alter immigration rules did not extend to imposing a tax on foreign worker petitions. Sorokin, an Obama appointee based in Boston, emphasized that only Congress could authorize such a financial burden on the program, which companies use to hire skilled professionals in specialized fields.
Legal Challenge and Policy Context
The lawsuit, initiated by a group of Democratic state attorneys general in December, targeted Trump’s effort to tighten the H-1B visa program by introducing the fee. The policy aimed to curb what the administration claimed was excessive use of the program, which allows foreign nationals to work in roles requiring advanced degrees or equivalent qualifications. Visas are initially valid for three years and may be extended for another three.
“The President had no power or delegated authority to impose a tax on H-1B petitions,” Sorokin wrote, highlighting that Congress had not granted the executive branch permission to enact the change unilaterally.
Impact on Immigration and Workforce
Supporters of the H-1B program argue it helps US firms stay competitive globally and fosters job creation. However, the administration defended the fee as a necessary measure to protect American jobs, asserting it would hold companies accountable for exploiting workers. A Justice Department spokesperson reiterated the agency’s commitment to Trump’s “America First” agenda, noting a prior court victory in a similar case.
“We will continue to hold companies accountable when they unlawfully exploit American workers and fail to use the H-1B program as intended,” said Natalie Baldassarre, a DOJ representative.
Reactions from Legal Leaders
New York Attorney General Letitia James, who led the lawsuit, praised the ruling as a victory against the administration’s “illegal attempt” to dismantle the visa system. She stated, “Workers with these visas contribute immensely to our state, and I will keep fighting to stop this administration’s unjust and unlawful attacks on our immigrant communities.” The decision has sparked renewed debate over the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches in shaping immigration policy.
This story has been updated with additional responses. CNN’s Casey Gannon, Alejandra Jaramillo, and Adam Cancryn contributed to this report.
