Governor Greg Abbott says “U.S. citizenship is not for sale” as Texas launches investigations into healthcare providers accused of facilitating birth tourism.
Texas is taking another aggressive step in its immigration enforcement efforts. Governor Greg Abbott signed Executive Order GA-57, directing several state agencies to investigate what the state calls “birth tourism.”
The order increases scrutiny of healthcare providers, hospitals, and organizations that allegedly help foreign nationals travel to Texas to give birth so their children receive U.S. citizenship. State officials argue that some organizations profit from arranging these trips.
What Is Birth Tourism?
Birth tourism refers to foreign nationals traveling to the United States on temporary visas with the primary goal of giving birth.
Under the 14th Amendment, nearly every child born in the United States automatically becomes a U.S. citizen, regardless of the parents’ immigration status.
Texas officials say some businesses actively market childbirth packages to international clients who want their children to receive American citizenship.
What Abbott’s Executive Order Does
Executive Order GA-57 instructs multiple Texas agencies to investigate healthcare providers and organizations suspected of facilitating birth tourism.
The agencies include:
- Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)
- Texas Department of State Health Services
- Texas Medical Board
- Texas Board of Nursing
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
Officials can suspend or revoke professional licenses if investigators uncover violations. They can also refer cases for civil or criminal action and coordinate with federal authorities when necessary.
Investigation Began Earlier This Month
The latest executive order follows Abbott’s earlier directive ordering the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to investigate Mission Regional Medical Center.
State officials alleged that the hospital advertised maternity packages to foreign nationals seeking childbirth services in Texas.
According to the Governor’s office, investigators later referred evidence involving two Texas hospitals to the Texas Attorney General for additional review.
Abbott: “Citizenship Is Not for Sale”
Abbott said Texas will not allow businesses to exploit the immigration system for financial gain.
“Texas will not tolerate the exploitation of our immigration laws. U.S. citizenship is not for sale.”
The Governor also encouraged Texans to report suspected birth tourism operations to state or federal authorities.
Supporters Say It’s About Immigration Enforcement
Supporters argue that birth tourism exploits both immigration laws and taxpayer-funded resources.
Many Republicans have called for stronger enforcement against businesses that arrange travel, medical care, and housing for expectant mothers who travel to the United States primarily to give birth.
Critics Raise Constitutional Concerns
Immigration advocates argue that birthright citizenship remains protected under the U.S. Constitution.
Critics also question whether these investigations could discourage immigrants from seeking medical care. Others worry hospitals may hesitate to treat lawful international visitors because of increased scrutiny.
What Happens Next?
The executive order does not change federal citizenship law or eliminate birthright citizenship.
Instead, Texas plans to investigate businesses and healthcare providers that allegedly facilitate or profit from birth tourism.
Only Congress, the federal courts, or a constitutional amendment can change birthright citizenship.
For now, Texas plans to expand investigations while continuing to work with federal immigration authorities.
