World Immigration News

Trump signs executive order targeting ‘benefits for illegal aliens’

Release Date: 2025-02-20
Media: The Guardian
Summary: Former President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at ending federal benefits for undocumented immigrants. The White House announced that the order seeks to terminate "all taxpayer-funded benefits for illegal aliens," though it remains unclear which benefits will be affected. Undocumented immigrants are generally ineligible for public assistance, except for emergency medical care, while a 1982 Supreme Court ruling ensures free K-12 education regardless of immigration status.

The executive order is based on the 1996 welfare reform law, which restricted public benefits for undocumented immigrants. However, Trump criticized the Biden administration for undermining this law by expanding benefits for many immigrants. In particular, Biden extensively used parole authority, allowing over 900,000 people entry through the CBP One app and accepting more than 500,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans with financial sponsors. Additionally, around 300,000 Ukrainians and Afghans were granted parole. Those granted parole for at least a year qualify as "eligible non-citizens," making them eligible for certain income-based benefits after five years. Some states, however, have shortened this waiting period.

Trump’s order instructs federal agencies to identify and terminate benefits that violate the 1996 welfare law. It also aims to prevent state and local governments from using federal funds to support sanctuary policies. Additionally, the order calls for the immediate termination of Biden’s CBP One program.

On his first day in office, Trump also issued ten executive orders on immigration, including ending birthright citizenship and asylum at the southern border. The birthright citizenship order is currently blocked by the courts. Furthermore, he directed all agencies to review regulations and collaborate with Elon Musk’s government efficiency department to rescind or modify rules inconsistent with his administration’s policies.

As part of his broader efforts to reduce government size, Trump announced plans to eliminate several independent agencies, including the United States Institute for Peace (which promotes conflict resolution), the Inter-American Foundation (which funds development in Latin America), and the U.S. African Development Foundation (which supports community development in Africa). These measures aim to streamline government spending, though they are expected to face significant legal challenges.
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