
Republican lawmakers are taking action to cut off federal funds to non-profits and NGOs that help illegal immigrants enter the U.S. and stay in the country. Led by Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), the Blocking Assistance and Resources to Restrict Illegal Entry and Residency (BARRIER) Act seeks to stop the flow of taxpayer dollars to organizations that support the Biden administration’s immigration agenda.
Gaetz argues that these groups, many of which operate at the border, play a direct role in helping illegal immigrants cross into the country and avoid deportation. “The federal government should not be financing the destruction of its own country,” Gaetz said, criticizing the use of federal money to support activities that violate immigration laws.
The BARRIER Act has the backing of several prominent Republican lawmakers, including Reps. Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Eric Burlison (R-MO), and Lauren Boebert (R-CO). The bill would not only cut off funding to organizations that assist migrants at the border but would also penalize those that help illegal immigrants already inside the U.S.
As the 2024 election approaches, illegal immigration remains a top concern for many voters. The introduction of this legislation comes as new reports reveal the dangers posed by the current immigration system, including violent crimes committed by illegal immigrants. One recent example is the murder of a Georgia nursing student by a foreign national, which has drawn national attention.
Gaetz and his co-sponsors believe the BARRIER Act is a necessary step to curb illegal immigration and hold accountable the organizations that enable it. The bill is expected to spark further debate about the role of NGOs in the ongoing border crisis.