FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 19, 2025
CONTACT
Email: [email protected]
Adrian Escárate, 202-609-9976
Emily Morris, 213-457-7458
NILC Statement on Trump’s Executive Order Targeting Immigrant Access to Federal Programs
WASHINGTON — Kica Matos, president of the National Immigration Law Center, issued the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s latest executive order targeting immigrant access to federal programs:
“This executive order is yet another cruel and shameless effort by the administration to scapegoat and spread lies about immigrants. It is also evidence of ongoing attempts to distract the public from Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s evisceration of the federal government.
“As the order itself acknowledges, undocumented immigrants are already ineligible for most federal programs. Imposing further vague and unnecessary burdens on federal, state, and local agencies will only serve to exacerbate exclusionary policies that have harmed countless families and communities.”
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Overview of Immigrant Eligibility for Federal Programs (Table)
Updated Oct 1, 2026 This table provides an overview of immigrant eligibility for the major federal public assistance programs. Originally published in November 2015.
Major Benefit Programs Available to Immigrants in California (Table)
Updated Sep 23, 2026 This table lists the programs for which certain immigrants residing in California are eligible. Originally published in May 2017.
Public Charge: Frequently Asked Questions for Immigration Advocates
Published Sep 16, 2026 Starting September 18, 2026, a new regulation and new guidance on public charge inadmissibility will go into effect. This FAQ reflects our best understanding of the rule as of September 2026....
How Anti-Black Racism Shapes Welfare Inequality for Immigrants
Kat Lundie
Published Sep 18, 2026 Laws and policies throughout American history have consistently and systematically ensured that Black people and immigrants do not receive equal opportunities to escape poverty.