Mike Lee’s America First Act Targets Welfare Benefits for Illegal Immigrants

Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) highlighted his America First Act during a Senate Budget Committee meeting on Wednesday, reiterating its goal of banning illegal immigrants from accessing welfare and other federal benefits. Originally introduced in December 2024, the legislation seeks to block billions of taxpayer dollars from being used to support individuals paroled into the United States through questionable asylum claims.

Senator Lee criticized what he described as a “criminal redistribution scheme” that allows illegal immigrants to receive benefits intended for American citizens. He argued that this practice undermines border security efforts and incentivizes illegal immigration. The bill has garnered support from Representative Chip Roy (R-TX) and House Budget Committee Chair Jodey Arrington (R-TX), who introduced a companion measure in the House of Representatives.

Representative Roy described the misuse of welfare programs by illegal immigrants as a “magnet” that encourages continued unlawful border crossings. He emphasized that the America First Act would prevent illegal aliens from exploiting welfare systems and ensure aid is directed toward struggling American families. The legislation’s authors estimate it could save taxpayers over $177 billion by cutting off benefits for individuals who lack legal status.

During a confirmation hearing for Office of Management and Budget Director Nominee Russell T. Vought, Senator Lee outlined the urgency of the bill. He stated, “My America First Act bans illegal immigrants from receiving welfare and other benefits meant for American citizens.” Vought expressed alignment with the proposal, affirming its consistency with the administration’s goals.

Chairman Arrington echoed similar concerns, asserting that as long as illegal immigrants receive taxpayer-funded benefits, border enforcement efforts will remain insufficient. Arrington called for ending welfare for illegal immigrants as a critical step in reducing incentives for unlawful entry.

The legislation comes amid ongoing debates over border security, with proponents emphasizing the importance of prioritizing American taxpayers while discouraging illegal immigration.

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