H‑1Bs Fueled 30–50% Productivity Gains

Clemens asserts that increases in H‑1B workers from 1990–2010 explain 30–50% of U.S. productivity growth. Natural‑experiment shocks from cap changes let economists isolate causal effects on patenting, startup formation, firm output, and native wages. — If accurate, this reframes skilled immigration as a primary engine of U.S. prosperity, challenging restrictionist policies and guiding talent and innovation strategy.