Shri Thanedar introduces bill to keep PhDs in America

Citing his own experience, Indian American lawmaker says he was able to live the quintessential American dream through education

Indian American Congressman Shri Thanedar has introduced a bipartisan bill to increase America’s global competitiveness and to grow the economy by filling a critical gap in the United States employment sector by letting PhDs stay in America.

Called Putting Highest Degrees (PhDs) First Act, the bill provides a streamlined pathway for permanent residency for individuals who earn a PhD degree from an accredited US college or university.

READ: Shri Thanedar makes Samosa caucus bigger (November 9, 2022)

Individuals must also have a job offer that pays the median wage for their occupation and area under Thanedar’s legislation.

Due to America’s strength in higher level education, students around the world choose to study in America. Because of this, of newly awarded doctoral degrees from 2000 to 2019, international students account for more than 40%, Thanedar noted in a press release.

At Wayne State, 35% of PhD candidates, amounting to 418 people, are international students. However, after finishing their education, many of these individuals choose to leave America and take jobs elsewhere, he stated.

“Due to strict quotas and visa backlogs that have created unnecessary hurdles, America loses the expertise of many high skilled individuals, Thanedar stated. “With the need for STEM related jobs increasing 34%, there is a present need for individuals with higher education.”

To fill this gap and increase the retention for PhD holding individuals, the bill removes the barriers that make it difficult for individuals to remain in America, the release stated.

Thanedar, it said understands the importance of higher education. “When I immigrated to America, I had only $20 in my pocket. Through education, I was able to build the life I wanted. I really was able to live the quintessential American dream,” he stated.

“After receiving a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Akron, I was able to build multiple small businesses that created more than 500 well-paying jobs across Michigan. I credit education as the reason for my success.”

READ: Congressman Shri Thanedar Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Keep Ph.D. Graduates in America (June 23, 2023)

Thanedar is pleased that he is able to help put America first while also helping individuals like himself, according to the release.

The bill will help the United States tap into a rich source of talent and expertise that will further bolster its workforce, promote innovation, and enhance its global standing, it said.