Proposed Bill Targets Benefits for Noncitizens
Breitbart News has reported on a new bill introduced by Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas). The proposal aims to eliminate federal benefits such as Medicaid, housing aid, student loans, and food stamps for noncitizens, under the premise of “putting the American people first.”
Announced on Wednesday by the Senate’s third-highest Republican, the legislation would permit the denaturalization of individuals who are naturalized citizens if they “undermine domestic tranquility” by engaging in violent protests or causing property damage. Additionally, it would grant “expanded expedited removal powers.”
The bill also raises issues regarding Afghan nationals residing in the United States. Notably, the individual who attacked two National Guard members last week was from Afghanistan, arriving through the Biden administration’s Operation Welcoming Allies program.
If enacted, the legislation would mandate “compulsory protection of Afghan nationals” and ensure automatic termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for those who no longer meet the criteria.
Historically, the Trump administration sought to eliminate TPS for immigrants from countries like Burma, Somalia, and Venezuela. While the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initially hesitated to end TPS for Afghans last July, the program has since expired.
John Binder from Breitbart News elaborated on TPS, explaining that the program was established by the 1990 Immigration Act to shield immigrants affected by hunger, conflict, or natural disasters. Over the years, under multiple administrations, it has evolved into a sort of de facto amnesty program.
Cotton’s legislation proposes that TPS for nationals of specified countries would automatically terminate if DHS concludes their conditions no longer require protection, or if their crime rates rise 20% above the national average. This provision would apply retroactively to countries named after President Trump took office, including Afghanistan, Haiti, Venezuela, and Somalia.
“Hardworking Arkansans should not have to support non-U.S. citizens with federal programs. My bill puts American citizens first,” Cotton remarked in an exclusive statement to Breitbart News.
