The controversial policy, rooted in wartime legislation dating back to World War II, has received the green light from a federal judge and is expected to significantly reshape immigration compliance standards across the country.
Donald Trump
Trump, a Republican, took steps to ramp up immigration enforcement after taking office, including a push to deport record numbers of migrants in the US illegally. (AP)
All foreign nationals residing in the United States for more than 30 days are now legally required to register with federal authorities or face serious penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or deportation, under a new directive backed by the Trump administration.
The controversial policy, rooted in wartime legislation dating back to World War II, has received the green light from a federal judge and is expected to significantly reshape immigration compliance standards across the country.
“All foreign nationals present in the United States longer than 30 days must register with the federal government. Failure to comply with this is a crime punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both… If not, you will be arrested, fined, deported, never to return to our country again,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement during her daily press briefing on Saturday.
Despite opposition from civil rights groups, US District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, a Trump appointee, dismissed legal challenges seeking to block the measure on Thursday. He ruled that the plaintiffs lacked sufficient standing to halt the enforcement of the directive.
Under the new rule, all non-citizens residing in the US for over 30 days—including visa holders, green card recipients, and work permit holders—must register and carry documentation proving their legal status at all times. Non-compliance could result in fines of up to $5,000 or jail terms of up to 30 days.
Children who turn 14 must re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday. Similarly, any foreign nationals entering the country on or after 11 April must register within 30 days if they are not already documented.
Immigrant advocacy groups have sharply criticised the move, warning that it could lead to racial profiling, increased fear in immigrant communities, and misuse of federal enforcement powers. Legal experts also argue the order’s sweeping scope raises serious constitutional concerns, although it remains in effect for now.
Source :indianexpress.com
