House Republicans are rallying behind President Donald Trump's executive order that limits birthright citizenship, anticipating legal challenges. The move comes as House Science and Technology Committee Chairman, a Republican from Texas, plans to introduce a new bill addressing the issue. Over 20 GOP lawmakers have already agreed to co-sponsor the bill.
The proposed legislation aims to address concerns related to individuals crossing the U.S.-Mexico border illegally and giving birth in the country, as well as the practice of 'birth tourism' where wealthy foreigners come to the U.S. specifically to have children.
Similar to Trump's executive order, the bill seeks to restrict birthright citizenship to babies born to at least one parent who is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or a lawful non-citizen serving in the U.S. military. The bill would exclude children born to illegal immigrants or parents holding temporary visas.
House Republicans have expressed their support for the bill, with discussions held between the bill's sponsor and members of Trump's administration prior to the issuance of the executive order.
