Restricts eligibility for federal welfare programs to U.S. citizens.

The SHIELD Citizens Act amends the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 to limit federal welfare program eligibility to U.S. citizens. It defines "Federal welfare program" broadly to include cash, food, housing, medical, or energy assistance programs. Current noncitizen recipients will remain eligible for 180 days post-enactment for redetermination or transition. Programs unaffected include Social Security, Medicare, and unemployment compensation. The changes take effect 180 days after enactment.

Restricts eligibility for federal welfare programs to U.S. citizens.

The SHIELD Citizens Act amends the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 to limit federal welfare program eligibility to U.S. citizens. It defines "Federal welfare program" broadly to include cash, food, housing, medical, or energy assistance programs. Current noncitizen recipients will remain eligible for 180 days post-enactment for redetermination or transition. Programs unaffected include Social Security, Medicare, and unemployment compensation. The changes take effect 180 days after enactment.