What You Need to Know About Trump's Plan to Change Birthright Citizenship

President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to end birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to undocumented immigrants. He proposes to issue an executive order on January 20, 2025. 

This has stirred national debate, as it seeks to challenge a constitutional right that has been in place for generations. The 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship to all those born on American soil.

This potential policy could affect millions of immigrant families, particularly in states like California that have large immigrant communities. 

Understandably, the announcement has raised many questions and concerns. World One Law Group hopes to clarify what might happen and how to protect yourself and your family.

The Constitution's Stance on Birthright Citizenship

The 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution states: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States.” For hundreds of years, courts have interpreted this language to mean that anyone born in the U.S. is automatically granted citizenship, regardless of their parents' immigration status.

Many legal experts believe that changing this principle through an executive order would be unconstitutional. Organizations such as the ACLU have already voiced strong opposition, and most legal scholars agree that any attempt to alter the 14th Amendment would face significant challenges in court.

Could Congress Step In?

Some lawmakers, such as Senator Mike Lee of Utah, have expressed support for limiting birthright citizenship through legislation. However, changing the 14th Amendment is no small feat. It would require a rigorous amendment process, including approval by two-thirds of both the House and Senate and ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures. This makes it unlikely that such a change would succeed.

What This Could Mean for Families

If the executive order moves forward, it could have far-reaching impacts. Children born in the U.S. to undocumented parents might be denied automatic citizenship, leading to difficulties in obtaining vital documents like passports and Social Security numbers. This uncertainty could increase the risk of family separations, as undocumented parents might face deportation.

States with large immigrant populations, such as California, Texas, and Florida, would likely feel the greatest impact. Advocates are urging families to take steps now to secure crucial documents to help protect their futures.

Steps to Protect Your Rights

While this proposal faces many legal and constitutional hurdles, it's essential to stay informed. Speaking with an immigration attorney is a proactive way to understand your rights and make informed decisions for your family's security.

At World One Law Group, we are dedicated to helping families navigate these uncertain times. Whether you need guidance on how potential changes might affect you or assistance in securing necessary documentation, we are here to support you with compassionate, expert legal advice.

Let's work together to safeguard your family's future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward peace of mind.