In a bold step to protect American taxpayers and prioritize U.S. citizens, the House of Representatives has officially passed the American Entrepreneurs First Act (H.R. 2966)—a bill designed to block non-citizens and illegal immigrants from receiving Small Business Administration (SBA) loans.
The legislation passed with bipartisan support on Friday, as eight Democrats joined Republicans in voting to put American business owners first.
Putting Americans First, Not Foreign Interests
Authored by Rep. Beth Van Duyne (R-TX), the bill ensures that only U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and American nationals can qualify for SBA assistance. Individuals with temporary visas, as well as refugees and asylum seekers, would be barred from receiving taxpayer-backed loans.
“This is about protecting your tax dollars from waste, fraud, and abuse,” said Rep. Van Duyne. “We are closing loopholes that have been exploited by foreign nationals and ensuring that SBA funding goes directly to American entrepreneurs—not to people who shouldn’t be here in the first place.”
Conservative Lawmakers Taking Action on Illegal Immigration
This legislation comes at a time when border security and immigration reform are top concerns for millions of Americans. House Republicans are pushing forward multiple bills that would cut off federal benefits being used—intentionally or not—by those without legal status.
Supporters say the new bill helps restore accountability, patriotic values, and fairness to programs that were never meant to support foreign nationals or undocumented immigrants.
Reed Westcott, VP of Government Affairs for the National Small Business Association, praised the bill, saying: “This law sends a strong message: Main Street America matters. Let’s keep SBA loans where they belong—in the hands of hardworking American citizens.”
Democrats Push Back—But the GOP Majority Holds Strong
Democratic critics argue that there is little evidence SBA loans are reaching undocumented immigrants. Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-NY) voiced concerns that the bill could affect some legal immigrants and DACA recipients, calling it “burdensome.”
However, Republicans point out that existing systems are failing to prevent abuse and that this law creates much-needed safeguards—especially as small businesses are already struggling under inflation, high interest rates, and lingering supply chain disruptions.
What Happens Next?
The bill now heads to the Senate, where Republicans are expected to push for a swift vote. With growing public demand for border enforcement and fiscal responsibility, political analysts say the chances of this bill becoming law are strong.
This legislation is seen as a victory for American taxpayers, small business owners, and voters who are tired of watching their government put non-citizens before U.S. citizens.