Sen. Eric Schmitt proposes amendment to restrict birthright citizenship to children of U.S. citizens

U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) denounced the Supreme Court's June decision in Trump v. Barbara as a “ridiculous interpretation” of the 14th Amendment and the Civil Rights Act, arguing it expands birthright citizenship beyond the framers’ intent. Citing concerns about “birth tourism,” Schmitt introduced the American Citizenship Act and a constitutional amendment that would limit citizenship at birth to children of U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. He also referenced Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s concurring opinion, which suggested a statutory fix could clarify the law.

Schmitt’s proposals aim to restore the original scope of birthright citizenship and address what he describes as loopholes exploited by foreign nationals.