This is an executive power. USCIS - the President can modify regulations, such as how H-1B applications are processed or the criteria used in selection lotteries.
There is rulemaking process that takes time. It has to go through notice and comment period, withstand lawsuits, etc. I agree with your overall point though, that this admin was utterly spineless and useless.
This is an executive power. USCIS - the President can modify regulations, such as how H-1B applications are processed or the criteria used in selection lotteries.