The Trump administration has heightened its oversight of the H-1B visa program due to alleged misuse. Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling shared insights into how some companies allegedly exploit the program, harming U.S. workers. Major technology firms, he emphasizes, should favor domestic workforce over misusing the visa system.
In related news, Instacart, a notable grocery delivery service, has agreed to a significant settlement with the Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ accused the company of discrimination against American workers based on their country of origin, a violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
According to the DOJ, Instacart manipulated the Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) process by imposing inappropriate conditions on American job applicants. From December 2023 to February 2026, applicants were required to send physical applications instead of using the company’s usual electronic process.
“This significant resolution marks the 15th settlement agreement the Civil Rights Division has reached under my leadership to protect U.S. workers,” Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon stated. “Our record demonstrates that the Justice Department holds companies accountable for preferring temporary visa workers over U.S. workers.”
The settlement with Instacart includes a $4 million fund to compensate affected applicants and an additional $1 million in civil penalties. The EEOC assisted in this resolution, ensuring companies make genuine efforts to hire American workers under the PERM program.
The EEOC’s initiative, “Project Firewall,” aims to tackle discriminatory practices against American workers. EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas declared the commission’s dedication to countering unlawful employment barriers that favor visa holders over domestic workers.
An Instacart spokesperson highlighted the company’s commitment to American employment, stating, “We’re proud to be a U.S.-based technology platform, and we encourage qualified U.S. jobseekers to apply.” They added that while their practices complied with laws, they resolved the matter to focus on serving their customers better.