Sen. Mike Lee Pushes Bill To End Welfare Benefits For Illegal Immigrants

Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) is leading the charge to halt welfare benefits for illegal immigrants with his America First Act, a legislative effort aimed at cutting off taxpayer-funded assistance to non-citizens. The bill, introduced in December 2024, seeks to prevent illegal immigrants paroled into the United States from accessing social programs meant for American families.

During a Senate Budget Committee hearing on Wednesday, Lee stressed the importance of the legislation, stating that it is time to put an end to what he described as a “criminal redistribution scheme” that burdens taxpayers. The Utah senator argued that while Americans have long been assured that illegal immigrants cannot receive federal benefits, millions have been able to do so under policies implemented by the Biden administration.

 

Lee was joined by Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) and House Budget Committee Chair Jodey Arrington (R-TX), who introduced a companion bill in the House. Arrington emphasized that the legislation could result in substantial taxpayer savings, estimating the measure would cut more than $177 billion in spending.

 

Roy echoed the sentiment, stating that the current system acts as an incentive for illegal immigration. “Providing welfare to illegal immigrants only encourages more to cross our borders,” he said, arguing that the bill is crucial to restoring fiscal responsibility and ensuring benefits go to American citizens.

 

Office of Management and Budget Director nominee Russell T. Vought voiced his support for the initiative, affirming that the America First Act aligns with President Donald Trump’s commitment to putting American citizens first.

 

President Trump’s second term has focused heavily on immigration reforms, with several executive orders already issued to curb illegal border crossings and expedite deportations. The administration has urged Congress to act swiftly in passing legislation that strengthens border security and limits the financial strain illegal immigration places on federal resources.

In addition to Lee’s legislation, Trump’s allies in Congress are also pushing forward other measures, including the SAVE Act, which mandates voter ID requirements for federal elections, and the VALID Act, designed to prevent the Department of Homeland Security from using technology to facilitate the transportation of illegal immigrants across the country.

As Republicans in both chambers rally around these measures, the debate over immigration continues to intensify, with Democrats opposing efforts to restrict benefits and enforce stricter border policies.

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