In the News: Justin Coffey Quoted in Lexology PRO on Rising Costs for Foreign Talent
Lexology PRO quoted Constangy partner Justin Coffey in an article analyzing the U.S. Department of Labor’s proposed rule to significantly increase prevailing wage levels for H-1B and other foreign workers. The proposal, announced in March 2026, reflects a broader policy shift aimed at reducing employers’ reliance on foreign labor by raising wage thresholds across multiple visa categories.
Justin notes that the rule “did not come as a surprise,” pointing to prior policy actions, including a $100,000 fee on new H-1B applications and directives to revise wage requirements in line with the administration’s priorities. He explains that the proposed increases could have far-reaching effects on employers, with prevailing wages rising so significantly that the changes may disrupt hiring and retention strategies for foreign talent across industries.
The article highlights that employers—particularly those in technology and manufacturing—could face substantially higher labor costs and may need to reassess recruitment strategies, explore alternative visa options, or adjust compensation structures to remain competitive.
To read the full article on Lexology PRO's website, click here.
Justin is a partner in Constangy’s Raleigh office and co-chair of the firm’s Immigration Practice Group. He advises employers across a wide range of industries on U.S. immigration law, including developing visa strategies, managing global talent, and navigating complex compliance requirements such as I-9 and E-Verify. With more than 15 years of experience, Coffey works closely with organizations to align their immigration programs with business and workforce needs.
