President Donald Trump recently signed an immigration executive order aimed at sanctuary cities and ensuring that undocumented immigrants do not receive federal benefits.
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The order instructs federal departments to review programs providing financial benefits to undocumented immigrants. While the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 generally bars undocumented immigrants from public programs, the order criticizes the Biden administration for its use of temporary parole authority, which grants temporary permission to live and work in the U.S. Trump has moved to cancel this status for many migrants, noting that parole can make undocumented migrants eligible for income-based benefits after five years.
One significant aspect of the executive order is the call for stricter screening by state and local agencies for federal benefits recipients. This directive could impact individuals regardless of their immigration status, according to immigration advocacy groups.
The order also targets sanctuary jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Trump directs agency heads to prevent federal funds from supporting illegal immigration or sanctuary policies that protect illegal aliens from deportation.
This action reflects Trump's ongoing efforts to combat illegal immigration. While the order requires further implementation steps, it underscores the president's commitment to his campaign promise. Within 30 days, key officials are tasked with identifying federal funding sources for undocumented immigrants, enhancing eligibility verification systems, and reporting any misuse of federal benefits to relevant authorities.
Simultaneously, House Republicans plan to vote on the "No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act," aiming to penalize jurisdictions that resist federal immigration enforcement. Advocacy groups view this legislation as part of a broader Republican initiative to defund essential services.