Client Alert
H-1B Bill Passes Senate And House; Awaits Presidents Signature
October 01, 2000
By Paul Hastings Professional
The American Competitiveness in the 21st Century Act passed both the Senate and the House yesterday, October 3, 2000 and now goes to the President for signature. The bill contains provisions which will have a major impact on the business community. Most importantly, the bill substantially increases the H-1B quota for the next three years and eliminates the backlog created during the past two years. The bill also contains numerous provisions which are designed to increase flexibility and deal with INS backlogs. Note, however, the White House has expressed concern about certain provisions of the bill and is supporting a filing fee increase to as much as $2,000 per petition. The current $500 H-1B filing fee, while not increased by this bill, is widely expected to be increased substantially by separate Congressional action.