The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against SpaceX, alleging hiring discrimination in the United States. SpaceX has previously stated that it requires U.S. green cards as a minimum requirement for employment due to the company’s involvement in advanced weapons technology. Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, has emphasized that the company is legally prevented from hiring international candidates. He has also mentioned that a normal work visa is insufficient, unless the applicant receives special approval from the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of State.

However, the Justice Department argues that there are no hiring restrictions in place based on export control laws. According to the DOJ, refugees and asylees have equal access to employment opportunities without requiring additional government approval for accessing “export-controlled information and materials.” The lawsuit aims to bring about policy changes at SpaceX, as well as seek civil penalties and back pay for victims affected by the alleged hiring restrictions.