Tuberville Introduces ASSIMILATION Act Aimed at Overhauling U.S. Immigration System

May 14, 2026 - WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R‑AL) has introduced new legislation-the ASSIMILATION Act-designed to dramatically reshape the nation's immigration framework by replacing chain migration and the diversity visa lottery with a merit‑based system focused on national interest and cultural assimilation.

Tuberville discussed the proposal earlier this week on The Will Cain Show, arguing that the current system is "broken" and incentivizes immigration pathways that do not prioritize American values or economic needs.

Key Provisions of the ASSIMILATION Act

According to Tuberville's office, the legislation would implement a series of sweeping changes:

Create a statutory national‑interest standard to screen out applicants who do not intend to assimilate into American society.

Narrow eligibility for permanent family‑based immigration, shifting emphasis away from extended‑family sponsorship.

Eliminate the diversity visa lottery, a long‑standing program that allocates visas by random selection.

Reform employment‑based immigration to prioritize American workers over foreign labor.

Tighten H‑1B and F‑1 student work authorizations, limiting pathways that critics say can undercut domestic wages.

Require nationwide E‑Verify for all new hires.

Raise naturalization standards, including expectations for civic knowledge and cultural integration.

Increase penalties for visa overstays, one of the largest sources of illegal immigration.

Strengthen asylum screenings to reduce fraudulent claims.

Tuberville's Rationale

Tuberville has repeatedly argued that immigration to the United States is "a privilege, not a right," and that federal policy should prioritize individuals who respect American laws, support themselves financially, and embrace American culture.

In announcing the bill, Tuberville praised the Trump administration's ongoing deportation efforts and sharply criticized immigration policies under the Biden–Harris administration. He claimed that lax enforcement allowed "terrorists, drug dealers, and criminals" to enter the country, asserting that some are now seeking to harm American citizens.

"Coming to this country is a privilege, not a right," Tuberville said. "If you hate this country and refuse to assimilate, we do not want you here."

Companion Legislation in the House

Rep. Andy Ogles (R‑TN) has introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives, signaling coordinated Republican support for a broader shift toward merit‑based immigration and stricter enforcement measures.

Context

The ASSIMILATION Act enters the debate at a time when immigration remains one of the most divisive issues in national politics. Supporters argue that merit‑based systems strengthen the workforce and protect national security. Critics contend that such proposals can reduce humanitarian protections and restrict legal pathways for families.