The 'Fairness for High-Skilled Americans Act of 2025' aims to terminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for international students. This market resolves to 'Yes' if the bill is signed into law by August 31, 2025. Resolution will be based on official legislative records and credible news sources.

Resolution criteria

This market will resolve to "Yes" if the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program is terminated before November 29, 2025. Termination is defined as the enactment of legislation that explicitly ends the OPT program. Resolution will be based on official legislative records and credible news sources.

Background

The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows international students on F-1 visas to work in the United States for up to 12 months in a field related to their major area of study. Students in certain Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields may be eligible for a 24-month extension, totaling 36 months of work authorization. The program has been a pathway for international students to gain practical experience in the U.S. job market. (uscis.gov)

On March 25, 2025, Representative Paul A. Gosar introduced H.R. 2315, the Fairness for High-Skilled Americans Act of 2025, which aims to eliminate the OPT program. The bill has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. (congress.gov)

Considerations

• Legislative Process: For the OPT program to be terminated, H.R. 2315 or similar legislation must pass both the House and Senate and be signed into law by the President. The progress of such legislation can be tracked through official congressional records.

• Impact on Stakeholders: Termination of the OPT program would affect international students currently participating in or planning to apply for OPT, as well as U.S. employers who hire these students. The debate surrounding the program involves considerations of workforce dynamics, economic impact, and international competitiveness. (visaverge.com)

• Historical Context: Previous attempts to modify or eliminate the OPT program have been met with both support and opposition from various stakeholders, including policymakers, educational institutions, and industry leaders. The outcome of current legislative efforts may be influenced by these historical debates and the prevailing political climate. (visaverge.com)