Welfare Consumption by Illegal Immigrants Is Inevitable

Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders”, an executive order signed by President Trump on February 19, requires federal agencies to ensure that illegal immigrants do not improperly access welfare benefits. While the order is welcome, it cannot prevent illegal immigrants from participating in the welfare state. No order can. The reason is that illegal immigrants, although not usually eligible themselves, can access welfare through eligible family members such as their U.S.-born children. The best way to reduce illegal immigrant consumption of welfare is not to construct new eligibility rules, but to reduce illegal immigration itself. Read Full Article »