President Donald Trump has signed an executive order effectively ending birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to parents without legal status.
The order, titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” was signed shortly after Trump assumed office. It directs federal agencies to deny U.S. citizenship, including passports, to children born on American soil unless at least one parent is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Key Provisions
- The policy applies to children born after February 19.
- It specifically targets children born to parents who are in the U.S. illegally or on temporary visas if both parents lack legal status.
This directive is part of Trump’s broader immigration agenda aimed at reversing policies from the Biden administration, strengthening border security, and addressing issues surrounding undocumented communities.
Potential Legal Battles
The executive order is expected to face significant legal challenges, with critics arguing that it violates the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which grants citizenship to all individuals born on U.S. soil.
Supporters of the policy view it as a necessary step to curtail illegal immigration and reform what they consider outdated immigration laws.
The decision has reignited debates about immigration, citizenship rights, and constitutional interpretation, setting the stage for prolonged legal and political contention.