DOL Launches ‘Project Firewall’ H-1B Enforcement Initiative

On September 19, 2025, the Department of Labor (DOL) launched “Project Firewall,” to ensure that “employers prioritize qualified Americans when hiring workers and [hold] employers accountable if they abuse the H-1B visa process.”

DOL said that it will conduct investigations of employers through Project Firewall “to maximize H-1B program compliance. To achieve this goal, the Secretary of Labor will personally certify the initiation of investigations for the first time in the department’s history.” Violations may result in “the collection of back wages owed to affected workers, the assessment of civil money penalties, and/or debarment from future use of the H-1B program for a prescribed period of time,” DOL noted.

Additionally, DOL said it “will share information and coordinate with relevant government agencies, as permitted by law, to combat discrimination against American workers and ensure the law is properly enforced by leveraging the full force of the federal government.”

This is posting is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice. If you require further assistance or advice relating to the above, please contact our Partner, Catherine Betancourt at catherine@flynnhodkinson.com.