FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 4, 2025

Contact: Mufalo Chitam, Executive Director

mufaloc@maineimmigrantrights.org

Portland, ME – On July 3rd, 2025, the House of Representatives sent the federal budget to the President's desk for signature. The passage of the new federal budget represents one of the most aggressive investments in immigration enforcement in modern U.S. history while slashing critical supports that working families, immigrant and non-immigrant alike, depend on.

At a time when immigrant communities in Maine are already navigating limited access to housing, transportation, health care, and legal protections, this budget doubles down on exclusion. It dramatically expands funding for immigration enforcement agencies like ICE and CBP, including billions for new detention centers, increased surveillance, and mass deportation operations. These investments represent a disturbingly drastic departure from the values of due process, safety, and opportunity as enshrined in our Constitution. This July 4th weekend, for immigrants — and many underserved communities in Maine — this bill doesn’t reflect the feelings of freedom and independence that we traditionally celebrate.

The budget also slashes Medicaid and food assistance, and raises fees on those seeking legal immigration relief. These changes will not only harm immigrants. Children, low-income families, mixed-status households, people with pre-existing conditions, seniors, and anyone who relies on monthly prescriptions or preventative care will be affected. While some will feel the impact more immediately than others, the truth is simple: this budget threatens the well-being of our neighbors, colleagues, and communities across Maine.

“The approval of this budget presents a significant policy challenge for immigrant families. It is deeply sobering to witness the collapse of crucial support systems that people depend on, especially while they endure the dual burden of immediate threats and uncertain futures.”

MIRC is grateful to Maine’s congressional delegation for standing against these harmful provisions. As lawmakers enter the summer recess, we urge them and community leaders across the state to use this time to deepen relationships and recommit to building a more just, inclusive Maine. May this moment reinvigorate the power of community. Our interconnection, communication, storytelling, and Friendship are the glue holding our communities together under an administration doing everything it can to tear us apart.

Our coalition remains steadfast in our work to ensure all people, regardless of immigration status or background, have the opportunity to live with dignity and thrive.

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