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Responsible Practical Training Act of 2021
12/30/2022, 5:47 PM
Summary of Bill HR 3983
One key provision of the bill is the establishment of guidelines for practical training programs, including requirements for program duration, compensation, and oversight. This is intended to prevent exploitation of international students and ensure that they are receiving meaningful training experiences that align with their academic studies.
Additionally, the bill includes measures to increase transparency and accountability in practical training programs. This includes requiring program sponsors to provide detailed information about the program to participants, as well as regular reporting to the Department of Homeland Security on program activities. Overall, the Responsible Practical Training Act of 2021 aims to strike a balance between providing valuable opportunities for international students to gain practical experience in the United States, while also ensuring that these programs are conducted in a responsible and ethical manner. By establishing clear guidelines and increasing transparency, the bill seeks to protect the rights of international students and promote the integrity of practical training programs.
Congressional Summary of HR 3983
Responsible Practical Training Act of 2021
This bill imposes limits on the Optional Practical Training program and addresses related issues. (The program provides an F-1 student visa holder temporary employment authorization before or after completion of the student's studies, or both. Currently, an eligible alien may receive up to 12 months of employment authorization under the program, with a 24-month extension available to certain individuals with degrees in certain fields related to science, technology, engineering, or math.)
Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Homeland Security to issue regulations to (1) limit the program to six months and eliminate any extensions; and (2) exclude from the program any alien with a degree or working in a sensitive field, such as military-related fields.
The Department of Labor must conduct a wage analysis of the Optional Practical Training program and Curricular Practical Training program. The analysis must include a determination as to whether the aliens in the programs received wages appropriate for the type and location of employment.
