Commissioner Miller Bars TDA Grants to Businesses Employing H-1B Visa Holders

Miller Calls on Abbott and Statewide Elected Officials to Put Texas Workers First

AUSTIN — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today announced that the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) will no longer award eligible department-administered grants to businesses that employ H-1B visa holders, putting taxpayer dollars behind Texas workers rather than companies that rely on temporary foreign labor.

“Texas taxpayers work hard for their money. They deserve to know that their tax dollars are being used to create opportunities for Texans—not to subsidize businesses that choose foreign labor while Texans are ready and willing to work,” Commissioner Miller said. “If a company wants taxpayer support, it should demonstrate a commitment to the people paying the bill. Texas workers should come first. Period.”

Miller challenged Governor Greg Abbott and every other statewide elected official to follow TDA’s lead and adopt similar safeguards across their agencies, grant programs, and economic development initiatives.

“Governor Abbott has publicly declared that taxpayer-funded employment should prioritize Texans. I agree—and now it’s time to turn that principle into action,” Miller said. “Texans deserve more than tough talk. They deserve a government that puts their interests first when spending their money. I challenge the governor and every statewide elected official to examine their grant programs and close the gaps that allow taxpayer dollars to flow to businesses employing H-1B visa holders.”

The policy draws a firm line: businesses seeking eligible TDA grant funding must meet the department’s new requirements, including restrictions tied to employing H-1B visa holders. Taxpayer-funded grants should strengthen Texas communities, support the Texas workforce, and reward businesses that invest in the people who call this state home.

“We’re not going to turn a blind eye to how taxpayer money is used,” Miller said. “Every dollar comes from a Texas taxpayer. Every dollar should be put to work in the public interest. If we’re serious about putting Texans first, we must be willing to back up those words with action.”

Miller called on state leaders to review existing economic incentive and grant programs, increase transparency surrounding recipients, and ensure that public funding advances opportunities for Texas workers.

“Texas has invested heavily in education, job training, and workforce development. It makes no sense to tell Texans to prepare for tomorrow’s jobs while ignoring how taxpayer dollars are used by the businesses receiving public assistance today,” Miller said. “My message to state leaders is simple: stand with Texas workers, protect taxpayer dollars, and make Texas families the priority.”

The proposed eligibility changes do not apply to TDA-administered grant programs operated on behalf of independent boards, commissions, or entities that establish their own eligibility criteria. They also do not restrict public or private Texas entities from receiving federal grant funds or participating in state-funded loan programs administered by the department.