DOL Secretary Highlights Major Increase in H-1B Enforcement Activity
During a November 7, 2025 interview with Fox News, Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer announced that the U.S. Department of Labor has opened more than 175 investigations into potential employer misuse of the H-1B program.
This sharp rise in enforcement aligns with the rollout of Project Firewall, which introduces new fees, heightened scrutiny, and tighter compliance measures aimed at protecting U.S. workers and ensuring employers meet all program obligations.
Key Points
- Enforcement surge: More than 175 investigations have been launched into H-1B employers suspected of program abuse. This signals a more aggressive approach than in previous years.
- Project Firewall: The investigations had been conducted through Project Firewall, an enforcement initiative launched in September 2025. This new initiative focuses on ensuring employers comply with prevailing wage and recruitment requirements. It is part of a broader effort to prevent exploitation of the program.
- Secretary of Labor’s Argument: Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer said, “There are companies across this nation who have used this program, but they have either abused it to get into the program or they’re abusing it within the program”
What U.S. Employers Need to Know
- Compliance risk is rising: Employers should assume higher scrutiny of their H-1B practices. Non-compliance could result in fines, back wage liability, or restrictions on future sponsorship.
- Documentation matters: Recruitment efforts, wage levels, and job postings must meet regulatory standards. Proper documentation is essential to avoid enforcement actions.
- Budget and planning: The new fee and potential delays could impact hiring timelines. Employers should plan budgets and staffing strategies accordingly.
The administration’s heightened enforcement represents a major shift in H-1B oversight. Employers must act proactively to ensure compliance and minimize risks while continuing to access global talent.
SOURCES: Fox News, November 7, 2025: www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-admin-reveals-over-100-investigations-into-h-1b-abuses-as-it-pledges-every-resource-to-protect-us-jobs?msockid=2f2264d3edc367d502767021ec696672; Newsweek, November 10, 2025: www.newsweek.com/h-1b-visa-trump-admin-investigations-visa-abuse-11021029
The content of this article is intended only to provide a general guide to the subject matter. It should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact FGI at info@employmentimmigration.com or (+1) 248.643.4900 for guidance if you have specific questions.