Sid Miller Bars H-1B Employers From Texas Agriculture Grants

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced on October 28 that the Texas Department of Agriculture will bar businesses employing H-1B visa holders from receiving certain department-administered grants. Miller stated the policy ensures taxpayer funds prioritize employment opportunities for Texas residents over temporary foreign workers, asserting that companies seeking taxpayer support should demonstrate a commitment to the people paying the bill.

The restrictions apply only to grants managed directly by the department. They do not affect federal grant eligibility, state-funded loan programs, or programs operated on behalf of independent boards and entities that establish their own criteria. While the policy has been announced, it currently lacks a specific effective date, statutory citation, or verification procedure.

This move follows a January 27, 2026, directive from Governor Greg Abbott, which requires state agencies and public higher education institutions led by gubernatorial appointees to obtain written permission from the Texas Workforce Commission before filing new H-1B petitions. That freeze remains in effect through May 31, 2027. Miller has urged Abbott and other statewide elected officials to implement similar grant restrictions across other state agencies and economic development initiatives to increase transparency regarding grant recipients.