Trump signs orders curbing funding for migrants, eliminating regulations

Trump signs executive orders targeting illegal immigration funding and excessive regulations, bolstering Musk's government efficiency efforts.

U.S. President Donald Trump signed a new slew of executive orders on Wednesday (February 19, 2025), including one aimed at preventing taxpayer dollars from supporting illegal immigration and one designed to get rid of regulations the administration considers "overreach."

Also Read | U.S. arrests, deports hundreds of ‘illegal immigrants’, says Trump press chief

The immigration order bars the use of federal money for migrants in the country illegally, directing all agencies to identify any federally funded programs that do so.

The executive action also ensures that federal funds cannot be used by state or local "sanctuary" jurisdictions, according to the White House. Sanctuary cities prevent local law enforcement from assisting federal civil immigration officers.

In another order, Trump instructed the heads of every agency to undertake a review of all regulations, working with members of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency. Any regulations that are deemed inconsistent with the administration's policies will be rescinded or modified, the order said.

The action aims to bolster Musk's sweeping government-slashing effort, which is facing numerous court challenges over its lawfulness.

Mr. Trump also targeted a number of advisory committees and agencies for elimination, part of his broader campaign to assert control over independent executive agencies.