Keep Innovators in America Act
To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to codify the Optional Practical Training program.
This bill, HB8013, proposes to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act by officially establishing the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. OPT allows international students who have completed their degrees in the U.S. to work for up to a year in their field of study. The bill aims to make this program permanent and more accessible for foreign students, helping them gain practical experience and potentially stay in the U.S. to work and contribute to the economy.
The bill would primarily affect international students who are or will be graduating from U.S. universities, as well as employers who hire these students. By codifying OPT, the bill aims to provide more stability and clarity for both students and employers, ensuring that highly skilled graduates can continue to contribute to the American workforce.
HB8013 was introduced on March 19, 2026, and has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration. As of now, no additional actions have been taken on this bill.
