Citing the surge in illegal immigrants who’ve come into the U.S. over the last few years, Sen. Lindsey Graham on Wednesday announced new legislation to prevent children born to them from becoming automatic citizens.

The South Carolina Republican said his legislation will also apply to children of legal but temporary visitors. That’s an effort to crack down on so-called “birth tourism,” which sees pregnant women arrive as visitors with the intent of giving birth.

“It is long overdue for the United States to change its policy on birthright citizenship because it is being abused in so many ways,” Mr. Graham said.

The U.S. is relatively rare among major nations in offering automatic citizenship to just about anyone born on American soil.

Most scholars say the policy is required by the Constitution’s 14th Amendment, though some say the amendment leaves leeway for legislation.

The amendment says those born here and “subject to the jurisdiction” of the U.S. are automatically citizens.

Mr. Graham’s legislation would define that jurisdiction so that it does not include children of illegal immigrants and temporary visa holders.

If it became law, it would apply prospectively and would not rescind any prior citizenship grants.

Former President Donald Trump, while in office, repeatedly suggested he would take executive action to try to curb birthright citizenship, but never actually took any steps.

During this current presidential campaign, he has again vowed to try to alter birthright citizenship.

• Stephen Dinan can be reached at sdinan@washingtontimes.com.