A broad coalition of labor unions, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and faith-based organizations has filed a lawsuit to block the Trump-Vance administration’s controversial executive action imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications. Issued on September 19, 2025, and implemented just 36 hours later, the proclamation has caused widespread disruption for employers, federal agencies, and international workers. Plaintiffs are represented by Democracy Forward, Justice Action Center, South Asian American Justice Collaborative (SAAJCO), Kuck Baxter LLC, Joseph & Hall, P.C., and IMMpact Litigation.
Leaders from various organizations highlighted the detrimental impact of the policy. Todd Wolfson of the American Association of University Professors warned that this measure will stifle innovation, slow research breakthroughs, and reduce US competitiveness. Dr. Taylor Walker, President of the Committee of Interns and Residents (SEIU), emphasized that resident physicians on H-1B visas provide essential care nationwide and that the exorbitant fees could exacerbate the ongoing healthcare staffing shortage.
Mike Miller, UAW Region 6 Director, criticized the policy for prioritizing wealth over talent, discouraging the world’s brightest scientists from working in the US. Rafael Jaime, president of UAW 4811, representing over 48,000 academic workers at the University of California, stressed the need for international scholars to work free of harassment or xenophobic barriers.
Co-counsel also condemned the measure. Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, described the fee as unlawful and destabilizing, arguing that H-1B workers are crucial for STEM education, rural hospitals, medical research, and small business growth. Karen Tumlin of Justice Action Center said the policy blocks essential professionals, undermining industries, hospitals, and schools. Kalpana V. Peddibhotla from SAAJCO highlighted that South Asian workers, who make up the majority of H-1B employees, are disproportionately affected. Jesse Bless of IMMpact Litigation stressed that the lawsuit protects talented individuals and preserves the US workforce.
The coalition aims to challenge the executive action in court, asserting that the six-figure H-1B fee is illegal, harmful, and threatens America’s innovation, research leadership, and essential services.
