Nearly three dozen higher education groups pressed Homeland Security for an exemption from the administration’s new $100,000 H‑1B petition fee, arguing the charge will hinder universities’ ability to recruit critical faculty, researchers and clinicians. The American Council on Education led the appeal, saying international hires are essential to research, medical care and graduate education. At the same time, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis publicly directed state public universities to stop hiring employees on H‑1B visas, framing the move as a state response to concerns about foreign influence on campuses. University leaders and faculty unions pushed back, calling the directive disruptive to research programs and clinical staffing in state hospitals. The dual pressure—federal fee uncertainty and state directives—could accelerate talent shortfalls at research universities and medical centers that depend on international recruitment. Higher‑ed leaders are seeking administrative clarifications and legal remedies while warning boards and researchers about potential long‑term impacts.