Story perspectives

Nineteen States Sue Over Controversial H-1B Visa Fee

12/13/2025

Center

Bonta Challenges Visa Fee

Nineteen states, led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, are suing the Trump administration over a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications announced in September 2023.
The states argue the fee unlawfully burdens employers and contradicts federal law, following similar lawsuits from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and various unions.
Critics claim the fee could negatively impact sectors dependent on skilled foreign workers, especially in tech and healthcare, while the White House defends it as a necessary reform to protect American jobs.

Right

National Trust Sues

The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed a lawsuit to halt a White House ballroom project.
The lawsuit contends U.S. President Donald Trump bypassed necessary reviews and congressional approval, violating federal laws.
The project began in October and would demolish the East Wing to build a 90,000-square-foot ballroom at an estimated cost of $300 million, funded privately.
The White House says the President has the legal right to proceed with renovations.

Left

Center Sues Trump

The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit against U.S. President Donald Trump to block replacing Glacier National Park's image with a closeup of his face on the America the Beautiful Pass.
The suit argues the change violates the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, requiring the pass to feature the winning photo from a public contest.
The Interior Department announced the 2026 pass redesign, while critics say it politicizes parks.

1 of 3

Bonta Challenges Visa Fee

Nineteen states, led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, are suing the Trump administration over a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications announced in September 2023.
The states argue the fee unlawfully burdens employers and contradicts federal law, following similar lawsuits from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and various unions.
Critics claim the fee could negatively impact sectors dependent on skilled foreign workers, especially in tech and healthcare, while the White House defends it as a necessary reform to protect American jobs.

1 / 3