I have heard that republic airline has given letters to foreign students so they can get they work permits. A student can apply and get work permit as a part of "OJT-on the job training" for a year to up to two years or even more if they keep enrolled as a student, they can work on the side. But it's only couple of casees that I have heard about.

Also, Australians are legally allowed to apply for work permit under E2 visa, however the rules are quite difficult to understand. Would need an attorney to figure it out.

And if the rules do change based on shortage I'm sure they would be enough applicants maybe more then the requirement, just to get the jet time and many are unemployed in various parts of Asia who did come to US to get they FAA license. Most prolly they wouldn't have 1500 hrs, but they are many who would meet the requirement too.

It just depends how the Regional, U.S. Government, ALPA and the majors play that game.