President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday aimed at identifying and cutting off federal financial benefits for immigrants who entered the country illegally—despite existing laws that already prohibit such payments.
The order, signed aboard Air Force One, instructs federal agencies to review their programs and take "corrective action" if any are found to be providing benefits to individuals without legal status. Additionally, it calls for improvements to eligibility verification systems and mandates that any individuals who improperly receive or misuse federal funds be referred to the Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security.
While the move aligns with Trump's broader efforts to tighten immigration policies and curb government spending, its practical impact remains unclear. The National Immigration Law Center notes that, with few exceptions such as refugees, undocumented immigrants are already ineligible for federal assistance programs like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) under laws such as the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996.
In a statement, Trump defended the order as a step toward protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring benefits are reserved for American citizens in need, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
“My Administration will uphold the rule of law, defend against the waste of hard-earned taxpayer resources, and protect benefits for American citizens in need,” the order states.
The executive action is part of a larger crackdown on immigration during Trump’s presidency. His administration has taken a hardline approach by expanding deportation policies, deploying the military for border operations, and even sending some migrants to Guantanamo Bay in Cuba. Additionally, Trump has sought to freeze federal spending that does not align with his policy goals, including cutting foreign aid programs and dismantling agencies like the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
While the order reinforces Trump's commitment to restricting federal aid to undocumented immigrants, critics argue that it is more symbolic than substantive, given that existing laws already prevent such payments. However, the directive does signal continued efforts to reshape federal policy on immigration and government spending.
