H.R.2454 - No Citizenship for Alien Invaders Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2454, the "No Citizenship for Alien Invaders Act of 2025," aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to prevent individuals who have unlawfully entered the United States from becoming naturalized citizens. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 27, 2025, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. The proposed change would add a clause to Section 312 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1423), explicitly stating that unlawful entry disqualifies an alien from naturalization, regardless of other provisions.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would create a blanket prohibition on naturalization for anyone who has ever entered the U.S. unlawfully. This could affect a large number of individuals who might otherwise be eligible for citizenship under existing immigration laws. It would likely lead to increased deportations and decreased immigration.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially strengthens border security by removing an incentive for unlawful entry.
- May reduce strain on social services and public resources.
- Could be seen as upholding the rule of law and discouraging illegal immigration.
- May address concerns about national security by restricting citizenship to those who followed legal pathways.
- Could lead to increased compliance with existing immigration laws.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could penalize individuals who have otherwise become law-abiding and contributing members of society.
- May create a permanent underclass of undocumented immigrants with limited rights and opportunities.
- Could negatively impact the economy by reducing the labor pool and consumer spending.
- May face legal challenges based on equal protection and due process concerns.
- Could harm the U.S.'s reputation as a nation of immigrants and opportunity.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is debatable. While Congress has broad power over immigration and naturalization (Article I, Section 8, Clause 4), the bill could face challenges under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment if it's seen as discriminating against a particular class of immigrants. The Supreme Court has recognized Congress's plenary power over immigration but has also acknowledged constitutional limits on that power. The bill's impact on due process rights could also be scrutinized.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).