WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) introduced the Safeguarding American Workers’ Benefits Act, which would prevent individuals without proper work authorization, including illegal migrants, from claiming federal tax credits.
Congressman Higgins has offered the legislation as a potential cost savings to be used in upcoming budget reconciliation legislation. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and Joint Committee on Taxation (JTC), the bill would save American taxpayers $27.8 billion over 10 years.
Under current law, those with an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN), including illegal migrants, can receive Child Tax Credit (CTC) or Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) benefits. The Safeguarding American Workers’ Benefits Act would require those applying for the CTC or EITC to have legally immigrated to the United States and been issued a work-authorized Social Security Number. This legislation ensures that these tax credit benefits go to support legal, working adults and families. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.
“Over the past four years, Democrats prioritized financial compensation and benefits to illegal aliens over American citizens,” said Congressman Higgins. “Hardworking Americans have not only been footing the bill for these illegals, but our nation’s debt has risen to over $36 trillion. This legislation will save taxpayer dollars, end tax credits for illegal immigrants, and potentially provide cost savings for the upcoming budget reconciliation process. I am honored to work with Senator Hyde-Smith and the Trump Administration to ensure that our tax dollars are benefiting the American people.”
“I welcome President Trump’s intent to target wasteful spending and enforce immigration laws. The environment is certainly friendlier now to adopt legislation that saves billions of dollars and ensures that only U.S citizens and persons authorized to work can benefit from the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “I will work to ensure that Safeguarding American Workers’ Benefits Act is considered as part of the debate to extend and improve on the Trump tax cuts that expire this year.”
Read the legislation here.
