Trump Signs Executive Order Cutting All Taxpayer-Funded Benefits for Illegal Immigrants

THE NEWS

President Donald Trump signed an executive order aboard Air Force One prohibiting all federal taxpayer-funded benefits from going to immigrants in the country illegally.

The order directs federal agencies to identify and halt any flow of public benefits to illegal migrants, tighten eligibility verification, and cut funding to “sanctuary” jurisdictions.'

“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, including individuals with disabilities and veterans,” read the text of Trump’s order.

TIMELINE

February 19, 2025: Executive Order Signed

• President Trump, returning from Florida to Washington on Air Force One, signs an executive order titled “Ensuring Federal Benefits Serve American Citizens.”

• The text mandates a broad prohibition on federal benefits for illegal immigrants and instructs agencies to identify any programs or grants potentially aiding them.

• The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) begins coordinating with federal departments (HHS, HUD, USDA, etc.) to review program eligibility and compliance.

• White House officials reaffirm that “any identified distribution of funds to illegal aliens” must cease, with final reports and recommendations due in 30 days.

REACTIONS

Trump Administration: Calls the order a “critical step” to secure borders and reduce strain on state/local budgets.

House Republicans: Praise the move, citing FAIR estimates of $182 billion annually spent on illegal immigrants.

WHAT'S NEXT

Federal departments have 60 days to report programs violating the order. Targets may include Medicaid reimbursements and non-emergency healthcare.