In a move to address illegal immigration, President Donald Trump has issued an executive order aiming to eliminate federal benefits for individuals residing in the United States without legal authorization. The order seeks to prevent the use of taxpayer funds to support those living unlawfully in the country, though specific details on which benefits will be affected have yet to be clarified. Typically, undocumented immigrants are ineligible for federal benefits, with exceptions such as emergency medical services. Additionally, a 1982 Supreme Court ruling ensures that all children, regardless of immigration status, have access to free public education from kindergarten through 12th grade.
The executive order references the 1996 welfare reform law, which initially imposed restrictions on public benefits for unauthorized immigrants. However, the order suggests that this law has been weakened over time. It asserts that previous administrations compromised the law, leading to significant taxpayer resources being misused.
This action appears to target policies from former President Joe Biden’s tenure, during which parole powers were used extensively. Under Biden’s administration, over 900,000 individuals were granted temporary entry into the U.S. through an online appointment system known as CBP One at border crossings with Mexico. Additionally, more than 500,000 people from countries like Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela entered the country through similar programs. These initiatives have now been halted by President Trump.
Furthermore, nearly 300,000 individuals from Ukraine and Afghanistan were granted parole under Biden’s administration. Those granted parole for a year or more become “qualified non-citizens,” making them eligible for certain benefits based on income, such as Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, but only after a minimum of five years, as outlined by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Some states may choose to reduce this waiting period.
The order also aims to identify federal spending that conflicts with the 1996 welfare reform and to prevent federal grants from being used by state and local governments to support policies that encourage illegal immigration or “sanctuary” policies.
On his first day back in office, President Trump signed ten executive orders on immigration, including efforts to abolish automatic citizenship for those born in the U.S. and to restrict asylum at the southern border. However, the birthright citizenship rule has faced legal challenges, delaying its implementation.
Another recent order calls for agency heads to review existing regulations in coordination with a government efficiency team led by Elon Musk. Policies not aligning with the administration’s goals could be rescinded or altered to enhance government efficiency, though they may face legal scrutiny.
The executive order also addresses dismantling several advisory committees and agencies to reinforce control over independent executive agencies. Among those targeted for closure are the United States Institute for Peace, which focuses on international conflict resolution; the Inter-American Foundation, supporting community initiatives in Latin America and the Caribbean; and the U.S. African Development Foundation, known for investing in community projects across Africa.
This comprehensive measure reflects the administration’s broader objective to reevaluate and reshape federal government functions.
