Lawmaker Proposes Merit-Based Replacement for H-1B Visa System

Congressman David Schweikert introduced the SMARTER Act, H.R. 10460, which proposes replacing the current H-1B visa selection system with a merit-based framework. The legislation would prioritize highly skilled, better-paid foreign workers while sharply restricting family-sponsored immigration and eliminating the Diversity Visa lottery. The proposal suggests establishing a five-member board to determine annual immigration limits based on economic factors like labor shortages and wages.

The proposal would fundamentally change how the United States manages its skilled labor supply and immigration policy. By shifting to a merit-based system, the legislation aims to allocate employment visas based on economic contribution and labor-market demand, potentially altering the availability of foreign talent in key industries.