Republican lawmakers, led by Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), are introducing a new bill aimed at halting federal funding to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and non-profits that provide assistance to illegal immigrants entering the U.S. The Blocking Assistance and Resources to Restrict Illegal Entry and Residency (BARRIER) Act is designed to target groups that support migrants both at the border and once they are inside the country.
Gaetz, a strong ally of President Donald Trump, stated that these organizations play a significant role in enabling the Biden-Harris administration’s immigration policies. “My legislation will strip these organizations of their federal funding, which can be used to assist those who break federal law,” Gaetz said in a statement to Fox News Digital. He argued that the government should not be funding efforts that undermine national security.
The bill is co-sponsored by several GOP representatives, including Reps. Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), and Randy Weber (R-TX). If passed, the legislation would stop federal grants to organizations like the American Immigration Council and CASA, which are believed to be aiding illegal immigration.
The introduction of the BARRIER Act comes just weeks ahead of the November elections, a time when border security is a key issue for many voters. Illegal immigration has been a major concern, particularly as reports of criminal activity involving illegal immigrants continue to surface. Recent stories, such as the brutal killing of a nursing student by an illegal immigrant, have only added to the urgency.
Gaetz emphasized that federal dollars should not be used to fund activities that harm the country. The legislation is part of a broader effort by the GOP to address what they see as the failings of the Biden-Harris administration’s immigration policies, particularly as the border crisis remains unresolved.
