<h1>Coalition sues to block $100,000 H-1B petition fee, says it will cripple rural hospitals and schools</h1> The administration issued a September proclamation imposing a USD 100,000 fee on new H-1B petitions, purportedly to deter replacement of U.S. workers; it exempted current visa holders and announced an exemption request process. A coalition of health-care providers, religious organizations and educators has filed suit seeking to enjoin the fee, alleging it will irreparably harm rural hospitals and schools that rely on H-1B hires to fill specialty vacancies. Plaintiffs contend the charge places essential services out of reach for small employers and communities; defendants will likely defend the fee as a lawful exercise of immigration and labor policy authority.