Edited 9/29/20 to add a link to a NAFSA analysis of the proposed rule.

On Friday, September 25, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a proposed rule to eliminate duration of status for F students and their dependents and J exchange visitors and their dependents; the proposed rule also includes I media representatives. MSU has issued the following statement in response.

Dear faculty, staff and students:

While the university is actively reviewing the proposed rule submitted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, we will say that the spirit of this proposed rule is deeply concerning and a flagrant disregard for the value our international students and scholars bring to American universities and colleges. The proposed rule adds needless complexity to a system that has worked to bring thousands of bright, motivated international students and scholars to Michigan State over the years—Spartans who have made countless contributions in our shared pursuit of solving global challenges and improving lives across the world.

Michigan State will continue to advocate on behalf of our international Spartans. We will be submitting a comment letter in opposition to the proposed rule, and will work with our colleagues in higher education associations and professional organizations to demonstrate the significant negative impact this proposed rule would have on Michigan State and our important international student and scholar community.

Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D.
President

Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D.
Provost

Steven Hanson, Ph.D.
Associate Provost and Dean for International Studies and Programs

NAFSA has published an analysis of the proposed rule which can be found on the NAFSA website. The proposed rule is subject to a 30-day public comment period, and individuals who wish to submit a public comment may do so by visiting regulations.gov and searching for DHS Docket No. ICEB-2019-0006.