Trump Signs Executive Order Aimed at Ending Federal Benefits for Unauthorized Immigrants
In a move to address illegal immigration, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at cutting federal benefits for individuals residing in the U.S. without legal permission.
This order seeks to eliminate taxpayer-funded assistance to unauthorized immigrants, although the exact details on which benefits will be affected remain unclear.
Currently, most unauthorized individuals are ineligible for federal benefits, with the exception of emergency medical services, and children are guaranteed free public education through grade 12 under a 1982 Supreme Court decision, regardless of immigration status.
The executive order references a 1996 welfare reform law, which originally limited public benefits for unauthorized immigrants but has seen weakening enforcement over the years.
Trump’s action aims to reverse policies from the previous administration, particularly those implemented by President Joe Biden.
Under Biden, various parole programs allowed hundreds of thousands of individuals from countries like Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Ukraine, and Afghanistan to enter the U.S., with some gaining access to benefits after a waiting period.
Additionally, the order targets federal spending that may conflict with the 1996 welfare reform law, seeking to prevent federal grants from supporting state or local policies that encourage illegal immigration or sanctuary city policies.
The order also revisits previous executive actions related to immigration, including the controversial push to end automatic birthright citizenship and asylum procedures at the southern border, though some of these actions face legal challenges.
Further, the order mandates a review of government regulations in collaboration with Elon Musk’s team to enhance efficiency.
It also calls for the closure of several advisory agencies, including the United States Institute for Peace and the US African Development Foundation, in an effort to streamline federal operations.
This executive order marks another step in the administration’s broader agenda to overhaul federal policies related to immigration, government spending, and international aid.
