Today, Secretary Kristi Noem declared that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will enforce the Immigration and Nationality Act. This act provides tools to track individuals in the country illegally and encourages them to self-deport. The enforcement measures include criminal penalties for those who fail to leave the United States, do not register with federal authorities, or neglect to update their address with the government.
Failing to depart from the U.S. could lead to significant financial penalties. Not registering can result in fines, imprisonment, or both. Secretary Noem emphasized that these laws have been overlooked for years but will now be strictly enforced.
The DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated, “President Trump and Secretary Noem have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now. If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream.”
McLaughlin further noted that “The Trump administration will enforce all our immigration laws—we will not pick and choose which laws we will enforce. We must know who is in our country for the safety and security of our homeland and all Americans.”
This announcement coincides with a nationwide and international advertising campaign urging illegal aliens to self-deport.
Aliens are encouraged to register through available channels as part of this initiative.