Demand for H-2B visas has surged 60% in five years, but DOL processing delays are pushing certifications dangerously close to peak season. Without a mid-December release of supplemental FY26 visas, employers could face duplicative filings, bottlenecks, and late worker arrivals into June or July. DHS must act now—and H-2B employers should contact their congressional representatives to urge immediate publication of the supplemental rule.

The Heritage Foundation’s latest report and a new DHS proposal both call for replacing the H-1B lottery with a wage-based selection system. While framed as targeting “top talent,” this shift risks shutting out small businesses, start-ups, and early-career professionals. By prioritizing the highest salaries, the policy could further concentrate visas among large corporations and reduce diversity in the U.S. high-skilled labor market.