Immigration has been a strongly divisive issue in the US, with lawmakers clamouring for controls to check the rampant misuse of visas and the subsequent abuse of public benefits.
Calls for tighter restrictions have grown louder within the Republican Party.
Now, Florida Republican Congressman Randy Fine has asked for a complete pause on all immigration to the US, saying the system must be fixed.
Fine said some foreigners were misusing the visa system by entering the country on tourist visas, claiming refugee status, and later travelling back to the countries they said they had fled. He said people were receiving benefits in the US and then returning home for vacations, which he described as a scam.
Fine was quoted as saying by a national daily that immigrants were entering the country legally and taking jobs from Americans.
He argued that immigration should remain on hold until the system ensures that only people who share American values, want to assimilate, and want to be Americans are allowed to enter. He said a full pause was necessary until reforms are made.
Last month, Fine introduced the No Welfare for Non-Citizens Act. The proposed legislation seeks to stop non-citizens from receiving federal welfare benefits and subsidies. According to his office, the bill would remove eligibility for non-citizens from programmes including healthcare, housing, and food assistance. Fine said the measure would apply even to those who are legally present in the United States.
Fine said the act was intended to protect American taxpayers and reduce federal spending, the report added.
He reportedly said welfare funds should be directed towards US citizens and Native Americans. Supporters of the bill, the report mentioned, believe it would close visa loopholes that allow some non-citizens to access benefits without consequences.
Further, Democrats and progressive groups have warned that the proposal could harm lawful immigrants and their families, many of whom pay taxes and take part in the US economy.
Fine has presented the legislation as a response to concerns that non-citizens are taking advantage of taxpayer-funded benefits.
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