DHS Plan To Scrap H‑1B Lottery For Wage‑Weighted Picks Sparks Backlash From Small Employers, Universities

Newsweek reports that immigration attorney Michael Wildes criticized a White House/DHS proposal to replace the H‑1B lottery with a wage- and education‑weighted selection. He warns the shift would disadvantage small businesses, rural employers, and U.S. universities, and could deter international students. Supporters argue prioritizing higher wages or credentials could boost the program’s economic value, while DHS plans to publish a rule for public comment. With the FY2026 cap already reached, any change would apply to future selections, creating near‑term uncertainty for employers and students.