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HR8013119th CongressWALLET

Keep Innovators in America Act

Sponsored By: Representative Liccardo

Introduced

Summary

Codifies Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students. The bill would authorize practical training and employment tied to a student's field of study and let certain students keep F-1 status while a petition under section 204(a)(1) is pending or approved, subject to consistency with section 214(m).

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  • F-1 students would be allowed practical training and employment related to their course of study while enrolled and after completing degree requirements, under terms set by the Secretary of Homeland Security.
  • Students who are beneficiaries of a pending or approved petition under section 204(a)(1) could maintain F-1 status, provided their course of study meets the requirements of section 214(m).
  • Employers would have clearer authority to hire F-1 students for field-related work during and after study, with the Secretary of Homeland Security setting the terms and conditions.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

More work options for F-1 students

This bill would let F-1 students have practical training and employment as part of their course of study. The Department of Homeland Security would set the terms and conditions for that work. The work would have to relate to the student's field of study and could continue after degree requirements are completed. If enacted, an enrolled student could keep F-1 status while a petition under section 204(a)(1) is pending or approved, so long as the course meets section 214(m). The change would take effect upon enactment.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Liccardo

CA • D

Cosponsors

  • Obernolte

    CA • R

    Sponsored 3/19/2026

  • Rep. Krishnamoorthi, Raja [D-IL-8]

    IL • D

    Sponsored 3/19/2026

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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