Chemical and Engineering News reported that a bipartisan group of US senators
plans to introduce new legislation next week aimed at boosting U.S.
competitiveness in science and technology. Titled the "Protect America's
Competitive Edge Act," the proposed legislation will have 20 recommendations
from an October 2005 report by the National Academy of Sciences. Among the
recommendations is the following:
"Provide a 1-year automatic visa extension to international students who
receive doctorates or the equivalent in science, technology, engineering,
mathematics, or other fields of national need at qualified US institutions to
remain in the United States to seek employment. If these students are offered
jobs by United States-based employers and pass a security screening test, they
should be provided automatic work permits and expedited residence status. If
students are unable to obtain employment within one year, their visas would
expire."