US Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Protect OPT Programme for International Students
A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers, including Representatives Sam Liccardo, Jay Obernolte, and Raja Krishnamoorthi, has introduced the Keep Innovators in America Act. This legislation aims to codify the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme into law, providing long-term certainty for international students, universities, and employers. The OPT programme allows international students to gain practical experience in their field of study, and the bill seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to formally authorize this training. The initiative is supported by a wide coalition of industry groups, universities, and immigration advocates.