East Idaho Times

Senator Jim Risch of Idaho and Representative Michael Cloud of Texas have introduced a bill aimed at stopping federal funds from being used to provide luxury accommodations and services for illegal immigrants. The proposed legislation, known as the End FEMA Benefits for Illegal Immigrants Act, seeks to halt what they describe as wasteful spending by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Risch stated, "While American citizens recovering from disaster struggle to make ends meet, FEMA has spent billions of dollars on hotel stays, flights, and food for illegal immigrants." He emphasized that the bill would "stop this insanity" and refocus FEMA's efforts on assisting American citizens affected by disasters.

Cloud echoed these sentiments, asserting that "FEMA exists to serve American citizens in times of crisis, not to bankroll benefits for illegal immigrants." He noted that with limited disaster response resources, it is crucial for FEMA to prioritize its original mission. According to Cloud, "President Trump made it clear that taxpayer money should not be used to encourage illegal immigration."

The legislation targets the termination of the Shelter and Services Program (SSP) managed by FEMA. This program has provided grants totaling $1.45 billion since its inception in Fiscal Year 2023. These funds have been allocated for various services such as hotel rooms, flights, parking, and food for illegal immigrants.

The introduction of this bill aligns with President Trump's executive order dated January 24, 2025, which called for a comprehensive review of FEMA operations. The objective is to ensure that FEMA does not support or incentivize illegal immigration.

The initiative has garnered support from other legislators including Senators Mike Crapo of Idaho, Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy of Montana, Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, along with six members of the House of Representatives.