HOUSTON — Gov. Greg Abbott said Tuesday he will seek legislation to prohibit H-1B visa holders from working in Texas K-12 public schools as part of a broader proposal to restrict foreign influence in the state’s education system.
Abbott also proposed legislation that would bar Texas public schools from accepting gifts or entering partnerships and financial agreements with foreign governments and entities they own, fund or operate through.
The governor’s office said the proposals would prevent foreign money, materials and partnerships from influencing Texas public schools.
“Texas classrooms should be a safe place for students to learn, grow, and succeed, not a place for foreign entities to indoctrinate young Texans,” Abbott said in a campaign email. “There should be zero foreign influence in the education of our children.”
Abbott’s office said the H-1B proposal would ensure that public school jobs go to Texans.
The H-1B visa allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers for specialized occupations. Some Texas school districts use the program to address teacher shortages, including in bilingual education.
The governor’s office did not provide details on when lawmakers would introduce the proposed legislation or when the measures would take effect.
Abbott is seeking reelection as governor. Democratic nominee Gina Hinojosa and Libertarian candidate Pat Dixon are challenging him in the race.
