WASHINGTON – Yesterday, Representative Steve Stivers (R-OH) joined Representative Seth Moulton (D-MA) to support international students by offering an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

Recent rulemaking by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would revoke student visas for international students who were forced to enroll exclusively in online or distance education classes because of the college or university’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.  In response to overwhelming pressure from universities, private companies, and lawmakers, the Trump Administration rescinded the rule.

Prior to that announcement, Representatives Stivers and Moulton filed an amendment that would prohibit the Secretary of Defense (DOD) from providing any funding or support to the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) if DHS moved forward with the implementation of this guidance.  This prohibition would extend the duration of the current public health emergency related to COVID-19, or during the 2020-2021 academic year. 

“As the Representative for a number of colleges and universities, including The Ohio State University, Ohio University, Wilmington College, and Ohio Christian University, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of having international students in our classrooms,” Stivers said.  “At a time when nations around the world are increasing their efforts to attract international talent, enrollment in American institutions is on a decline, and we should not be pursuing policies that discourage the best and the brightest from bringing their talents to the U.S., and I am glad to see the Administration has reversed course.”

International students have a significant economic impact, creating jobs and stimulating our economies.  In Ohio’s 15^th Congressional District alone, it is estimated that, in the 2017-2018 school year, international students contributed over $48 million to the local economy and created over 500 jobs.

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