U.S. Lawmakers Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Codify OPT Program for International Students
U.S. Representatives Sam Liccardo, Jay Obernolte, and Indian American Raja Krishnamoorthi have introduced the 'Keep Innovators in America Act.' This bipartisan bill aims to codify the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program into law, providing long-term certainty for international students, universities, and employers. The OPT program allows international students to gain practical experience in their field of study, often serving as a bridge between education and employment in the U.S. The legislation seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to formally permit practical training and employment authorization for international students, both during and after their degree completion. This move is intended to prevent abrupt policy shifts and ensure the program's continuity, which has been maintained through rulemaking by various administrations for over three decades. The bill has garnered support from a broad coalition of industry groups, universities, and immigration advocates. 
