President Donald Trump has signed an executive order instructing federal agencies to find and eliminate any financial benefits given to undocumented immigrants. This order was signed on Wednesday, and the White House explained that it aims to make sure taxpayer money is not used to support illegal immigration.
The impact of this order is unclear because undocumented immigrants usually cannot access welfare programs, as noted by the White House. According to the National Immigration Law Center, many federal assistance programs have long excluded non-U.S. citizens, and rules have become stricter since 1996, when new welfare and immigration laws were enacted. Most welfare programs, like food assistance and non-emergency Medicaid, are not available to undocumented immigrants. Even immigrants who could qualify for these programs often hesitate to apply.
This action is part of Trump’s broader focus on immigration, a key issue during his campaign, which he often discussed using heated language and incorrect information. Since taking office again on January 20, Trump has issued many executive orders related to immigration, some of which are facing legal challenges. Through these orders, he has sent more law enforcement to the southern border, which he has declared a national emergency, resumed construction of the border wall, limited entry for non-citizens into the U.S., restarted large-scale detention and deportation of non-citizens, ended special protections for some countries, and is working to change birthright citizenship.
The order signed on Wednesday also aims to ensure that federal funds do not reach so-called “sanctuary” states and communities, which the administration refers to as areas that support undocumented immigrants. Additionally, it requires improvements in the verification process to stop benefits from going to those who are undocumented.
The White House stated, “President Trump is committed to protecting federal public benefits for American citizens who truly need them.”
