Rep. Brandon Gill Introduces Bill for 25-Year Somalia Immigration Moratorium

The legislation aims to address fraud and lack of assimilation within the Somali immigrant community.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 5:31am

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Rep. Brandon Gill (R-TX) has introduced the Somalia Immigration Moratorium Act, which would establish a 25-year ban on immigration from Somalia. Gill cited concerns over lack of assimilation, abuse of federal benefits programs, and fraud within the Somali community as reasons for the proposed legislation.

Why it matters

The bill reflects growing political tensions over immigration and the perceived challenges of integrating certain immigrant communities. It aligns with the Trump administration's previous efforts to limit immigration and end Temporary Protected Status for Somalis.

The details

Gill's legislation would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to bar immigration relief for Somali citizens for 25 years, while preserving existing legal status and treaty obligations. The moratorium would not apply to those already in the country, lawful permanent residents, or diplomatic/international organization visa holders. Gill cited statistics showing high Somali usage of welfare programs and a $9 billion fraud scandal in Minnesota as justification for the bill.

  • Rep. Brandon Gill introduced the Somalia Immigration Moratorium Act on February 4, 2026.

The players

Rep. Brandon Gill

A Republican Congressman from Texas who introduced the Somalia Immigration Moratorium Act.

Donald Trump

The former U.S. President whose immigration policies and proclamations the proposed legislation would codify.

Kristi Noem

The current Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security who previously moved to end Temporary Protected Status for Somalis.

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What they’re saying

“Mass Somali immigration makes the United States weaker, poorer and erodes social trust.”

— Rep. Brandon Gill (Breitbart)

What’s next

The Somalia Immigration Moratorium Act will now proceed through the legislative process in Congress.

The takeaway

This bill reflects ongoing political debates over immigration policy and the perceived challenges of integrating certain immigrant communities. It aligns with the Trump administration's restrictive approach, but faces an uncertain future in the current political climate.