In combination with three other executive actions issued on January 20, this executive order effectively closes the southern border to migrants, including those requesting asylum and humanitarian protection. In addition to supporting ongoing human rights harms of the individuals looking to seek refuge, this is likely to damage local U.S. economies.
Executive Office of the President - White House Office
A directive issued by the President that manages operations of the federal government. Executive orders have the force of law but must align with existing statutes and constitutional authority.
Who It Impacts: Federal agencies and employees, directing them on how to implement laws or carry out government functions. Executive orders can also influence businesses and individuals when they relate to issues like immigration, trade, or labor policies.
Who Is Not Impacted: Private citizens and businesses do not have to directly follow an executive order unless it leads to regulations or policies that apply to them. For example, an executive order directing federal agencies to increase renewable energy use does not mandate action from private companies, but it may influence policy shifts that eventually affect them.
Date Enacted
January 20, 2025
Last Updated
March 27, 2025
Policy Type
No items found.
Immigrant Health
Summary
This executive order declares that a national emergency exists at the U.S. southern border and directs military personnel and resources to support the U.S. government’s response to the emergency. It directs the building of physical barriers, largely continuing the immigration policies of the first Trump administration.
Impact Analysis
Legal Challenges
Take Institutional Action
For healthcare institutions serving communities at the U.S. Mexico border, see Immigration Enforcement in Healthcare Settings How to Prepare and Respond.
Associated or Derivative Policies
- “Guaranteeing the States Protection Against Invasion” Presidential Proclamation
- “Securing Our Borders” Executive Order
- "Clarifying the Military’s Role in Protecting the Territorial Integrity of the United States” Executive Order
Policy Prior to 2025
A national emergency at the U.S. Mexico border was first declared by the first Trump Administration under the National Emergencies Act in 2019, and was discontinued under the Biden Administration in 2021.
Additional Resources
- U.S. Southern Border: President Trump's Executive Actions on Border Security (National Immigration Forum)
- Immigation Policy Tracking Project
