Colleges for the American People Act of 2025; CAP Act of 2025
Summary
H.R. 4743, also known as the Colleges for the American People Act of 2025 or the CAP Act of 2025, proposes to repeal section 214(g)(5)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This section pertains to numerical limitations related to employees of institutions of higher education. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on July 23, 2025, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be the removal of specific numerical limitations on the number of foreign workers that institutions of higher education can employ under the H-1B visa program. This could lead to an increase in the number of foreign employees at colleges and universities. The change could impact American workers seeking similar positions.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially allows institutions of higher education to hire the most qualified individuals regardless of nationality.
- May increase diversity of thought and expertise within academic institutions.
- Could enhance research and innovation by bringing in specialized skills.
- Might address shortages in specific academic fields where qualified American workers are lacking.
- Could streamline the hiring process for foreign employees at universities.
Potential Disadvantages
- May displace American workers in higher education, particularly in specialized fields.
- Could suppress wages for academic positions due to increased competition.
- Potentially reduces opportunities for American graduates and post-doctoral researchers.
- Might lead to a decline in the representation of American perspectives in academic research.
- Could exacerbate existing concerns about the impact of foreign labor on the American job market.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is primarily related to Congress's power to regulate immigration and establish laws regarding naturalization, as outlined in Article I, Section 8. The Constitution grants Congress broad authority over immigration matters. However, the potential impact on American workers raises questions about promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).