Immigrants and Safety Net Programs in Federal Budget Reconciliation

Congress has started legislating, and the potential impacts on immigrants and their families are dire. Legislative proposals are swirling that put benefits further out of reach, impose new restrictions on eligibility rules, and punish states and localities that welcome immigrants. Congressional leadership hopes to make many of these changes through a budget process known as reconciliation, allowing harmful provisions to pass with a simple majority.

Use the resources below to learn more and find ways to educate your Members of Congress about the harmful impacts of cuts to safety net programs and eligibility restrictions.

Organizational Sign-on Letter

This letter from nearly 700 organizations urges Congress to protect immigrant families access to health care and social services. PIF sent it to Capitol Hill on April 1, 2025.

Senate Letter with CTAN

This letter, signed by members of PIF’s steering committee and the Children Thrive Action Network’s coordinating committee, urges Senate leadership to reject the House budget reconciliation bill. PIF and CTAN sent it to Capitol Hill on June 3, 2025.

Advocacy Toolkit

This toolkit includes the top 3 things PIF partners can do right now to speak out on budget reconciliation. It also includes talking points, sample materials, and additional background.

Background on the Congressional “Reconciliation” Process

The Issues

This fact sheet provides an overview of the reconciliation proposals threatening immigrant families’ access to health and social services. This brief provides additional detail on the bill approved by key House committees.

Key Commentary

Research and Resources