NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Atlanta, GA, May 16, 2025: Georgia Congressman Dr. Rich McCormick (R-GA) has joined a group of Indian-American lawmakers in urging the U.S. Department of State to reinstate and expand the domestic H-1B visa renewal program. The group of 16 lawmakers, which includes Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), Dr. Ami Bera (D-CA), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), sent a joint letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlining the urgent need to make the pilot program permanent and more inclusive.
The lawmakers highlighted the success of a 2024 pilot program that allowed 20,000 H-1B visa holders—half of whom were Indian nationals—to renew their visas from within the United States, without needing to travel abroad. They called on the State Department to not only reinstate the program but to expand it to include other low-risk work visa categories such as E, H, I, L, O, and P visas.
“Allowing visa renewals to be processed domestically would reduce disruptions for skilled workers, ease backlogs at consulates abroad, and create greater efficiency for American employers,” said the letter. The signatories emphasized that skilled foreign workers, especially in the technology and healthcare sectors, are vital to maintaining U.S. economic competitiveness.
Congressman McCormick’s support is notable as he represents Georgia’s 6th congressional district, which includes a growing Indian-American population and a thriving technology corridor. McCormick, an emergency room physician and Marine Corps veteran, has been vocal about the need for pragmatic immigration reform that supports American innovation and job creation.
Georgia lawmaker, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr is also a signatory on the letter.
The initiative comes amid renewed debate over the future of the H-1B program, with critics from the far-right arguing that it displaces American workers. Despite this, supporters say the visa program fills critical talent gaps and supports U.S. companies competing on a global stage.
As of press time, the State Department has not responded to the lawmakers’ request.
The outcome of this appeal could impact thousands of high-skilled professionals working in the U.S., many of whom currently face the burden of international travel and extended processing times for visa renewals.
