DHS Says Immigrants in US Will Need to Register or Face Penalty
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said on Tuesday that immigrants in the country must register with the federal government and that failing to do so will result in fines, potential imprisonment, or both.
DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin emphasized that the Trump administration will enforce all immigration laws to ensure “the safety and security of our homeland and all Americans.”
“[President Donald Trump] and [DHS Secretary Kristi Noem] have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now,” the spokesperson said. “If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream.”
It stated that parents and guardians are required to ensure that their children, who have previously registered with the federal government, re-register and appear for fingerprinting within 30 days of turning 14.
The DHS will issue proof of registration upon completion of the registration and fingerprinting process. The department stated that immigrants over the age of 18 must carry this proof at all times.
“Failure to comply will result in criminal and civil penalties, up to and including misdemeanor prosecution and the payment of fines,” it stated, without specifying the amount of fines.
The DHS said that a form and process will be made available for immigrants’ registration in the coming days.
Trump’s order states that the former Biden administration had overseen “an unprecedented flood of illegal immigration into the United States” over the past four years and allowed millions of illegal immigrants “to fly directly into the United States on commercial flights” and “settle in American communities, in violation of longstanding federal laws.”
“Many of these aliens unlawfully within the United States present significant threats to national security and public safety, committing vile and heinous acts against innocent Americans,” the order stated. “Others are engaged in hostile activities, including espionage, economic espionage, and preparations for terror-related activities.”
Those who would like to immigrate to the United States can do so through legal means, the president has said.
DHS stated in a Feb. 20 news release that up to 600 DSS agents across the country had been deputized to help with arresting and deporting illegal immigrants. The release also noted that DHS had deputized employees with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the IRS to partake in immigration enforcement activities.