US Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer has intensified the US government's fight against H-1B visa misuse. She said, “American jobs must go to Americans first.” This crackdown is part of the Project Firewall, a Department of Labor program started in September 2025. The program fights wage suppression and aims to prioritize American workers. Currently, about 200 investigations into suspected H-1B violations are active. Chavez-DeRemer said, “Under President Trump's leadership, we've launched Project Firewall to ensure that the H-1B program is used as intended—for genuine skill shortages, not to undercut American wages or displace US workers.” She accused some companies of paying foreign workers below market rates and replacing qualified Americans unfairly. “Too often, we've seen companies exploit this program by paying foreign workers below-market wages, bypassing qualified Americans, or even forcing U.S. employees to train their own replacements. That's unacceptable, and it stops now,” she declared. She personally certifies every Project Firewall investigation. The Department of Labor also works with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to strengthen enforcement. Chavez-DeRemer warned that violating companies could face fines, visa bans, and other penalties. “To employers doing it right: we appreciate you. Keep recruiting fairly, pay prevailing wages, and invest in our domestic workforce,” she added. She also encouraged American workers to report unfair treatment linked to H-1B misuse. “Your voice matters. If you've experienced displacement or unfair treatment because of H-1B misuse, report it to us. Together, we're building an economy where opportunity starts at home.” Despite this, some doubt the effectiveness of the crackdown. In the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, 99.3% of Labor Condition Applications were approved. Critics demand that the names of companies penalized for violations be made public for transparency.