
Republicans in Congress are rallying behind the America First Act, a legislative effort aimed at preventing illegal immigrants from receiving taxpayer-funded benefits. Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT), who introduced the bill in December, is pushing to close loopholes that have allowed non-citizens to access welfare programs intended for American citizens.
At a Senate Budget Committee hearing, Lee argued that illegal immigrants paroled into the country have been exploiting federal aid programs, which he said creates a burden on taxpayers and encourages more illegal crossings. He emphasized that the bill would put an end to what he described as a misuse of American resources.
My America First Act bans illegal immigrants from receiving welfare and other benefits meant for American citizens.
“That’s exactly the type of reforms the President ran on.”
-Russ Vought, Trump’s next OMB Director pic.twitter.com/Qk8ENuvaDQ— Mike Lee (@SenMikeLee) January 22, 2025
In the House, Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) and House Budget Committee Chair Jodey Arrington (R-TX) have introduced a companion bill that aims to cut off these benefits and generate substantial savings. Roy pointed out that as long as welfare is accessible, illegal immigration will continue at high levels.
News: Thankfully Senator Mike Lee takes it one step further with his “America First Act.”
It will officially ban illegal aliens from receiving welfare and other benefits that are designed to assist American citizens when they need it most.
Now even though this should be common… https://t.co/EjLYWu78Zx pic.twitter.com/PYRU0RlJJ7
— Tom Homan – Border Czar Commentary and Updates (@TomHoman_) January 22, 2025
President Donald Trump’s administration is backing the legislation, with Office of Management and Budget nominee Russell T. Vought calling it an essential part of the president’s efforts to enforce immigration laws and ensure taxpayer funds are used responsibly.
I have just re-introduced the America First Act for the 119th Congress.
Biden’s massive abuse of parole for millions of illegal immigrants has allowed them to access welfare and other government benefits meant for American citizens.
It’s going to stop. https://t.co/Xi2NUwENhw
— Mike Lee (@SenMikeLee) January 9, 2025
The administration has already enacted executive orders to enhance border security and deportation efforts. Additionally, Trump is pushing for passage of the SAVE Act to prevent non-citizens from voting and the VALID Act to limit the transportation of illegal immigrants within the US.
My bill, the America First Act, would stop illegal immigrants and other noncitizens from receiving federal welfare benefits
Do you support that idea?
— Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) January 22, 2025
Despite expected resistance from Democratic lawmakers, proponents of the America First Act argue that it is a crucial step in ensuring welfare programs are reserved for American families while deterring illegal immigration.