U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship in the United States. Birthright citizenship gives citizenship to anyone born on U.S. soil, as guaranteed by the 14th Amendment of the Constitution.

The new order directs federal agencies to deny citizenship to children born in the U.S. if at least one parent is not a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder). This policy, which is set to take effect in 30 days, could prevent these children from receiving U.S. passports or citizenship rights.

The Supreme Court has long upheld that children born in the U.S. to foreign parents are citizens, except when both parents are diplomats. However, some argue that this interpretation has been applied too broadly. Critics believe that the current Supreme Court may allow for stricter standards on who qualifies for birthright citizenship.

Legal challenges were filed almost immediately after the order was signed. Immigrant rights groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and others, filed a lawsuit in New Hampshire, claiming the order violates the Constitution and federal laws that have stood for over 80 years. The lawsuit also argues that the policy could leave some children stateless.

State officials from California, Illinois, and other states have also indicated plans to sue. Many argue that such a significant change to citizenship laws cannot be made without Congress’s approval.

This executive order has sparked a heated debate and could lead to major legal battles in the months ahead. The final decision may have a lasting impact on immigration and citizenship policies in the U.S.