President Trump has issued a new executive order aimed at preventing taxpayer funds from supporting undocumented immigrants. Announced on Thursday, the order declares an intention to eliminate "all taxpayer-funded benefits for illegal aliens." However, the specifics of which benefits will be impacted remain unclear, as the order directs federal agencies to identify programs that provide such benefits.
Typically, undocumented immigrants do not qualify for federal assistance, with some exceptions in emergencies. A landmark Supreme Court ruling in 1982 established that all children, regardless of immigration status, have a right to free K-12 education. Additionally, those granted parole into the U.S. may access certain benefits, such as Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), for a limited time. Under the Biden administration, over a million individuals were paroled into the country under temporary programs, making them eligible for these benefits.
A White House fact sheet referenced data from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), which advocates for reduced immigration levels. FAIR claims that American taxpayers spend at least $182 billion each year to cover costs associated with approximately 20 million undocumented immigrants and their children.
Contrary to this perspective, research from various organizations presents a different narrative. The Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, a liberal research group, found that undocumented immigrants contribute billions to the U.S. Social Security system. Furthermore, the CATO Institute, a libertarian think tank, argues that noncitizen immigrants, including those without legal status and those on temporary visas, utilize welfare services at a significantly lower rate than native-born Americans.
In addition to targeting benefits for undocumented immigrants, the executive order seeks to prevent state and local governments from using federal funds to support sanctuary policies. These policies limit local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Trump’s earlier attempts to restrict funding for sanctuary cities were ultimately dismissed by the Supreme Court.
As the administration moves forward with this order, it remains to be seen how it will affect the lives of immigrants and the services they rely upon. The White House has not yet responded to requests for more detailed information regarding the implementation of the order.