Senator Katie Britt (R-AL) has taken a bold step in addressing the ongoing crisis at America’s southern border by reintroducing the “WALL Act,” a piece of legislation designed to revive and complete former President Donald Trump’s border wall project.
The proposal, which allocates $25 billion toward construction, goes beyond merely erecting a barrier—it also implements stricter measures to combat illegal immigration and safeguard federal resources. Britt’s message is clear: a physical barrier is essential to restoring order and protecting the nation’s borders.
In her press release, Britt emphasized the practicality of the wall, calling it “common sense” to ensure lawful entry into the United States. The bill is structured to avoid burdening taxpayers or exacerbating the national debt, relying instead on eliminating entitlement benefits for illegal immigrants. By removing access to taxpayer-funded programs, the WALL Act aims to reduce incentives for illegal migration while simultaneously reallocating those resources to border security initiatives.
Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), a staunch supporter of the legislation, highlighted the multifaceted importance of completing the wall. “This crisis isn’t just a matter of national security,” he stated. “It’s about defending the rule of law and keeping Texan and American families safe.” Cruz’s remarks underline the broader implications of the ongoing border crisis, from human trafficking to the influx of drugs into U.S. communities.
The WALL Act also introduces several measures to tighten immigration enforcement. Among these are mandatory Social Security number requirements to qualify for federal tax credits, including the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
Additionally, it imposes fines on visa overstayers, requires federal agencies to use E-Verify before granting benefits, and establishes penalties for fraudulent taxpayer identification practices. Illegal immigrants would also face fines ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 for entering the country unlawfully.
I recently reintroduced the WALL Act – common sense legislation to complete the border wall without raising taxes on US citizens or adding to our debt.
It secures the border while eliminating taxpayer-funded benefits and loopholes that incentivize more illegal migration. pic.twitter.com/JLCForsSpC
— Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) January 28, 2025
The timing of this proposal coincides with the recent passage of the Laken Riley Act, legislation inspired by the tragic death of a Georgia nursing student at the hands of an illegal immigrant. This act mandates detention for migrants charged with theft-related crimes, granting state attorneys general the authority to hold the Department of Homeland Security accountable for enforcing these provisions. Together, the two pieces of legislation represent a renewed push to crack down on illegal immigration while prioritizing the safety of American communities.
If enacted, the WALL Act could be a significant step forward in reviving President Trump’s immigration agenda, an issue he championed during his presidency and his recent 2024 campaign. By focusing on both physical security measures and fiscal accountability, the bill reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling the border crisis while addressing the frustrations of millions of Americans who feel the system has been overwhelmed for too long.