As of March 16, 2025
Since President Trump’s inauguration in January 2025, several significant immigration policy changes have been implemented:
Executive Order 14159: “Protecting The American People Against Invasion”
On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14159, aiming to enhance immigration enforcement and border security. Key provisions include:
- Expanded Use of Expedited Removal: Allowing for the rapid deportation of individuals without a court hearing.
- Sanctuary Jurisdiction Funding Restrictions: Denying federal funds to jurisdictions that do not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.
- Immigrant Registration Enforcement: Imposing civil and criminal penalties for immigrants who fail to register as undocumented.
- Increased Staffing for ICE and CBP: Authorizing significant hiring increases for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents.
- Public Benefits Restrictions: Limiting access to public benefits for undocumented immigrants.
- Expansion of 287(g) Agreements: Allowing local law enforcement to collaborate with federal immigration authorities.
- Increased Federal Prosecutions: Enhancing federal criminal prosecutions for immigration-related offenses.
Invocation of the Alien Enemies Act
In February 2025, President Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to expedite the deportation of individuals from nations deemed hostile, specifically targeting the Venezuelan gang “Tren de Aragua,” designated as a terrorist organization. This action allows for the detention and deportation of nationals from countries considered threats to U.S. security.
Challenges to Birthright Citizenship
An executive order issued in January 2025 seeks to deny U.S. citizenship to children born in the United States if neither parent is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This reinterpretation of the 14th Amendment has sparked legal debates regarding its constitutionality.
National Emergency Declaration and Border Security Measures
President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, reallocating funds to enhance border security measures, including the construction of additional barriers and the deployment of military resources. This declaration aims to address what the administration describes as an immigration crisis.
Suspension of Refugee Admissions
The administration has temporarily suspended refugee admissions into the United States, citing national security concerns. This suspension is part of broader efforts to reassess and potentially overhaul the refugee resettlement program.