Comment Submitted by Anonymous

I strongly support efforts to reform discretionary Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). The United States should align its immigration and labor policies with the realities of the modern economy, particularly the rapid development of artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced manufacturing. First, the United States should reduce reliance on broad discretionary work authorization and instead prioritize attracting highly skilled scientists, engineers, physicians, researchers, and entrepreneurs. Future economic growth will depend less on low-cost labor and more on innovation, productivity, and technological leadership. Immigration policy should reflect this long-term national interest. Second, advances in artificial intelligence are reducing the need for labor in many industries. As automation becomes more capable, expanding discretionary work authorization for lower-skilled occupations may no longer serve the country's economic priorities. DHS should consider limiting discretionary EAD eligibility, shortening EAD validity periods, or restricting employment authorization to occupations experiencing verified labor shortages. This would encourage investment in automation, productivity improvements, and workforce training rather than increasing dependence on temporary labor. Third, history demonstrates that long-term national competitiveness depends on technological advancement rather than abundant low-cost labor. Throughout American history, periods of industrial leadership have been driven by innovation, investment in new technologies, and improvements in productivity. Countries that rely primarily on inexpensive labor may achieve short-term cost advantages but often face greater challenges moving into higher-value industries. The United States should continue to compete through innovation instead of labor cost. Finally, discretionary employment authorization should remain a limited humanitarian measure rather than becoming a broad labor market program. Expanding access to discretionary work authorization may unintentionally reduce incentives for employers to invest in automation, workforce development, and higher-value production. A policy that prioritizes innovation, advanced technology, and highly skilled talent is more consistent with maintaining America's long-term economic strength and global competitiveness. For these reasons, I encourage DHS to adopt stricter standards for discretionary employment authorization while strengthening policies that attract and retain highly skilled talent. Such an approach would better support innovation, national security, economic resilience, and the United States' leadership in emerging technologies.