Here’s what Trump just did.
In a major win for American taxpayers, President Trump’s administration has announced sweeping new policies to cut off illegal immigrants from accessing federally funded benefits—everything from education programs to healthcare subsidies.
$40 Billion Saved by Prioritizing Americans
On Thursday, five major federal agencies—Education, Agriculture, Labor, Justice, and Health and Human Services—jointly unveiled reforms expected to save nearly $40 billion in taxpayer funds.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared the move a “major policy shift” designed to ensure that federal programs serve law-abiding American citizens—not border violators.
“Hardworking taxpayers will no longer foot the bill for illegal aliens,” said Education Secretary Linda McMahon. “Federal education programs will now serve those who are here legally and meet eligibility requirements.”
Illegal Immigrants Barred from Education & Job Training
Under the changes, adult education, workforce training, and postsecondary financial aid programs—including Pell Grants and student loans—are off-limits to illegal immigrants.
These programs will now strictly prioritize U.S. citizens and legal residents, in line with longstanding federal law.
Food Stamps Also Targeted
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that states must block illegal immigrants from accessing SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps.
“The generosity of the American people has been abused for decades,” Rollins said. “That ends under President Trump.”
New York City’s $3 Billion Migrant Tab Sparks Outrage
Trump’s crackdown comes after years of skyrocketing costs at the state and local level. Since 2022, New York City has spent more than $3 billion housing illegal migrants, including in upscale hotels like The Row.
Last year alone, the city received $81 million in FEMA funding to help cover the cost of migrant shelter programs.
Taxpayers across the country are footing the bill—and Trump is putting a stop to it.
Reversing Clinton-Era Loopholes
These reforms overturn old Clinton-era interpretations of the 1996 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA)—a law originally meant to limit access to public benefits for non-citizens.
Programs like Head Start, once open to illegal immigrants, are now formally classified as “federal public benefits,” closing loopholes and reserving services for eligible American families.
“We are restoring the original intent of welfare reform,” said HHS Acting Assistant Secretary Andrew Gradison. “Americans should come first—always.”
Tougher Immigration Stance: No Amnesty, No Freebies
These changes are part of President Trump’s “America First” immigration agenda. His administration is:
- Blocking states from granting education perks to illegal aliens
- Cracking down on sanctuary policies
- Expanding detention efforts—including the opening of the new “Alligator Alcatraz” facility in Florida’s swamps
The message is clear: illegal entry will not come with taxpayer-funded rewards.
Trump’s Executive Order: Realigning Federal Benefits
The action follows Trump’s executive order earlier this year directing all federal agencies to identify and eliminate any program providing cash or non-cash benefits to illegal immigrants.
“For too long, Washington insiders have undermined the law,” Trump said. “Now we’re fixing it—for good.”
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. praised the changes as a return to fiscal sanity.
“Today’s action restores the rule of law and protects vital resources for the American people. No more free rides.”
