House, Senate lawmakers move to slap limits on NGOs aiding illegal immigrants amid Trump funding crackdown
Two lawmakers in the House and Senate are introducing separate bills to impose restrictions on nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that they believe are undermining U.S. immigration law. These bills come at a time when there are broader concerns about the funding of NGOs and a crackdown on funding by the Trump administration.
Rep. Lance Gooden, R-Texas, is reintroducing the “Protecting Federal Funds from Human Trafficking and Smuggling Act,” while Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., is introducing the Fixing Exemptions for Networks Choosing to Enable Illegal Migration (Fence) Act.
Hagerty’s bill aims to revoke tax-exempt status for organizations that provide assistance to illegal immigrants. This bill would require exempt organizations to certify that they do not engage in activities that support individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States.
Gooden’s bill seeks to prevent federal contracts and grants from being awarded to NGOs unless they certify to the Office of Management and Budget that they are not involved in human trafficking or smuggling. It also calls for the revocation of tax-exempt status for organizations that knowingly violate federal law. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) develop a strategy and best practices guide for non-profits to ensure compliance with the law.
Both lawmakers are taking steps to address the concerns surrounding the role of NGOs in the migration crisis at the southern border. There have been longstanding worries about NGOs assisting migrants by providing shelter, assistance, and potentially aiding in their travel to their final destination. The funding for these activities comes from contracts and grants from various government agencies.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem recently announced that the department has ceased funding nonprofits due to their involvement in facilitating illegal immigration. This decision is part of a broader effort by the administration to enhance border security and combat illegal immigration.
President Trump has also signed an executive order mandating a review of all federal funding allocated to NGOs. The proposed legislation by Gooden and Hagerty would establish further limitations on NGO activities beyond the current administration.
In conclusion, the efforts by these lawmakers reflect a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by NGOs in the realm of immigration. By introducing legislation to curb illegal activities and ensure compliance with federal law, they are taking proactive steps to safeguard the integrity of the U.S. immigration system.
