A potential change to U.S. birthright citizenship laws has sparked widespread anxiety among Indian expatriates, resulting in a noticeable rise in preterm deliveries. Many families, fearing that their children might lose automatic U.S. citizenship if born after a proposed policy change, are opting for scheduled C-sections or induced labors to ensure their children are born before any legal alterations take place.
Under current law, the 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship to all children born on U.S. soil. However, recent discussions around ending this provision have created uncertainty, particularly for immigrant communities like Indian expats, who see U.S. citizenship as an important asset for their children’s future.
Hospitals across the country have reported a significant increase in the number of induced labors and planned C-sections among Indian mothers. While the law changes are not yet finalized and may face significant legal challenges, the fear of retroactive enforcement has led many families to take action early.
Although some doctors and health experts have expressed concern about the risks associated with preterm births, particularly for both mother and baby, families continue to prioritize securing citizenship over potential health risks. The rise in early deliveries highlights the growing tension around immigration policy and the lengths to which families are going to ensure their children’s future in the U.S.
Legal analysts point out that amending the 14th Amendment would require considerable time and effort, suggesting the policy change may not occur in the immediate future. However, the uncertainty surrounding the issue has left many immigrant families anxious about their children’s legal status.
This surge in preterm deliveries underscores the wider impact of immigration laws on communities, pushing families to make tough decisions about their health in the hopes of securing a better future for their children.