The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has unveiled a campaign aimed at rigorously enforcing immigration laws to compel the self-deportation of illegal immigrants. Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, emphasized that the Trump administration intends to employ every legal tool at its disposal to ensure that foreign nationals without legal status exit the country voluntarily.
Penalties for Remaining Without Proper Documentation
In an official statement released this Tuesday, the DHS warned that it will fully enforce the Immigration and Nationality Act. This legislation outlines penalties for foreign nationals who:
- Fail to leave the United States voluntarily.
- Do not register with the federal government or provide their fingerprints.
- Neglect to report address changes to immigration authorities.
Non-compliance with these regulations could lead to hefty fines, imprisonment, or both. According to the DHS, this law has been largely ignored for decades, but the current administration is dedicated to its strict enforcement.
Official Statement from DHS
Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for the DHS, articulated the government's stance in the announcement: "President Trump and Secretary Noem have a clear message for those illegally residing in our country: Leave now. If you leave now, you may have the chance to return and partake in our freedom and live the American dream."
The DHS believes that a widespread self-deportation would help conserve resources of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), ensuring efficient use of public funds.
Restrictions on Flights for Undocumented Immigrants
The multi-million dollar campaign against illegal immigrants was announced last week. Another measure implemented by the U.S. administration is the discontinuation of the CBP One app as identification for undocumented individuals boarding domestic flights.
In this regard, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stated that this new policy is effective immediately. The CBP One app will only be utilized in cases of self-deportation or transfers between detention centers.
Secretary Noem described the measure as a reversal of a "horrendous Biden-era policy" that allowed undocumented immigrants to fly without official identification. "Under President Trump's administration, the TSA and DHS will not tolerate this. Those illegally in the country will not be permitted to fly unless it is for self-deportation," Noem asserted.
FAQ on U.S. Self-Deportation Campaign
What is the main goal of the U.S. self-deportation campaign?
The primary objective of the U.S. self-deportation campaign is to enforce immigration laws strictly and encourage illegal immigrants to leave the country voluntarily.
What are the penalties for not complying with the Immigration and Nationality Act?
Penalties for non-compliance may include substantial fines, imprisonment, or both.
How does the new policy affect the use of the CBP One app?
The CBP One app can no longer be used as identification for undocumented individuals on domestic flights, except in cases of self-deportation or transfers between detention centers.