US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to stop federal funds from being used to support undocumented migrants.
The White House announced the decision, stating that federal departments and agencies must review and remove financial benefits given to individuals without legal status.
The order prevents federal money from being used by states and local governments to support sanctuary policies or aid illegal immigration.
It also strengthens eligibility checks to ensure only those legally present in the country receive benefits.
The government explained that the goal is to prevent taxpayer funds from being used in ways that encourage illegal immigration.
This move is part of a series of immigration-related actions taken since Trump assumed office last month.
Reports indicate that undocumented immigrants generally do not qualify for federal benefits, except in emergency cases.
The order read:
“Directing Federal departments and agencies to identify all federally funded programs currently providing financial benefits to illegal aliens and take corrective action.
“It ensures that Federal funds to states and localities will not be used to support ‘sanctuary’ policies or assist illegal immigration.
“Mandating improvements in eligibility verification to prevent benefits from going to individuals unlawfully present in the United States.
“Taxpayer resources are not used to incentivize or support illegal immigration”.
Since returning to office on January 20, President Donald Trump has intensified deportation efforts.
Thousands of undocumented immigrants, including over 300 Indian nationals, have already been removed.
Tom Homan, the administration’s border policy chief, stated that efforts to expel undocumented migrants will continue.