politics
Federal agencies expand enforcement against birth tourism
U.S. immigration agencies are increasing scrutiny of travelers and companies involved in birth tourism. The effort follows a Supreme Court ruling that blocked limits on birthright citizenship through executive order.
Jul 15, 6:00 AM·2m read1 source
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Federal immigration agencies are increasing enforcement against individuals and companies involved in birth tourism, which involves traveling to the United States to give birth and obtain citizenship for the child. Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement are targeting participants and facilitators, according to three senior administration officials.
The Department of Justice and FBI have also been directed to investigate and prosecute cases.
Background on the enforcement shift The Supreme Court earlier this summer barred the Trump administration from limiting birthright citizenship by executive order. A day after the ruling, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin discussed alternative approaches with White House officials.
Two senior administration officials said ICE's Homeland Security Investigations unit received new White House direction to expand its focus on the issue. CBP stated it would use every available enforcement authority to maintain immigration system integrity.
Statements from agencies and officials CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott said the agency is targeting criminal networks and facilitators that profit from immigration law violations, including those using foreign billboard advertisements. Individuals who misrepresent travel purposes may be denied boarding or admission, Scott added.
A former Texas Republican representative posted an image in April of a billboard in Reynosa, Mexico, advertising U.S. hospital services for international patients. President Trump posted on Truth Social last week criticizing similar advertisements and stating that American citizenship is not for sale.
