Lubbock Times

House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington, joined by Rep. Chip Roy, has introduced the America First Act in the House of Representatives. This legislation aims to prevent illegal immigrants from accessing federal benefits intended for American citizens. The bill, also introduced in the Senate by Senator Mike Lee, addresses what supporters describe as a crisis at the southern border.

Chairman Arrington stated, "Over the last four years, the unprecedented and unmitigated crisis at the southern border has devastated our communities." He emphasized that taxpayer-funded social services for illegal immigrants exacerbate the situation. Rep. Roy echoed this sentiment: "Millions of illegal aliens are exploiting U.S. welfare and aid programs that are meant to help struggling Americans."

Senator Lee criticized previous claims that illegal immigrants are barred from receiving federal benefits, stating, "This is a lie." He argued that many illegal immigrants have gained access to welfare and aid programs.

The Congressional Budget Office reported earlier this year that the Biden administration's border policies could add $0.3 trillion to federal outlays over a decade. The Foundation for American Immigration Reform estimates annual costs of assistance to non-citizens at $150.7 billion.

The America First Act proposes several measures including amending PRWORA to exclude certain groups from welfare eligibility and restricting federal housing assistance to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.

Various organizations have expressed support for the bill. Ryan Walker of Heritage Action for America said it is "a critical step toward stopping the main attractor of illegal immigration." Grant Newman from the Immigration Accountability Project commended its introduction as necessary to preserve benefits for American citizens.

Paul Winfree of EPIC highlighted financial concerns related to open borders policies, while Julie Kirchner from FAIR called for Congress to prioritize changes in policy. Greg Sindelar of Texas Public Policy Foundation supported putting Americans first through this legislation.

Kris Ullman from Eagle Forum stressed protecting fiscal integrity by endorsing the act, and Jenny Beth Martin of Tea Party Patriots Action urged quick passage. Tom McClusky of CatholicVote commented on safeguarding against criminal activity while welcoming strangers with open arms.