WASHINGTON: A group of Republican Senators has introduced a bill in the US Senate aimed at restricting birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants and those on temporary visas. Senators Lindsey Graham, Ted Cruz, and Katie Britt argue that the current policy encourages illegal immigration and poses national security concerns.

The US is one of 33 countries that allow unrestricted birthright citizenship. Lawmakers pushing for this change believe the system is being misused, particularly through practices like birth tourism, where wealthy individuals travel to the US to give birth so their child automatically becomes a citizen.

Senator Graham emphasized the urgency of reform, saying, “It is long overdue for the US to change this policy. Birthright citizenship has become one of the biggest incentives for illegal immigration.” He pointed out cases where foreign nationals, particularly from China and Russia, have paid thousands of dollars to "maternity hotels" to ensure their children receive American citizenship.

The proposed Birthright Citizenship Act of 2025 outlines new criteria for citizenship by birth. Under this bill, a child would only be granted automatic citizenship if at least one parent is a US citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or actively serving in the US military.

This legislative push comes after an executive order on the same issue, signed by former President Donald Trump, was blocked by a federal judge. Trump recently issued another executive order directing the federal government to deny citizenship documentation to children born after February 19, 2025, if their parents are in the US without proper authorization or if one parent is on a temporary visa.

The bill, if passed, would amend federal immigration laws but would not apply retroactively. However, legal challenges are expected. Currently, around 5.5 million children in the US have at least one undocumented parent, and 1.8 million children were born to two undocumented parents.

As the debate continues, supporters argue that the reform would bring the US in line with most other countries, while critics warn of legal and humanitarian consequences.

A proposed bill aims to restrict citizenship by birth, allowing it only for children born to U.S citizens, lawful permanent residents, or active military personnel. Senators believe this change will align United States citizenship practices with other countries and protect national sovereignty.