As reported earlier this week, the Senate version of the Stimulus package contains restrictions on the use of H-1b visas by companies receiving funds. In typical Grassley fashion, the basis for the restrictions was short on facts and logic and long on rhetoric and 19th century protectionist thinking. The National Foundation for American Policy has created a nice 1 page briefon the topic. Although the restrictionist language is not final until the House and Senate produce a single bill, it is unlikely that the provisions will be stripped in conference. Although the impact of this specific provision may be minor, the attitude and fervor with which Senator Grassley continues to spew forth policies that restrict or eliminate the legal use of international workers is alarming.