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The Trump administration secured a significant judicial victory on Thursday when a federal judge ruled that all individuals residing illegally in the United States are required to register with the federal government and carry documented identification.
According to reports from the Associated Press, Judge Trevor Neil McFadden, appointed by former President Donald Trump, sided with the administration, emphasizing that it is merely enforcing an existing mandate that applies to anyone in the U.S. who is not a citizen.
In this ruling, McFadden refrained from addressing the substantive arguments put forth by the Trump administration. Instead, he determined that the organization opposing the registration requirement lacked the legal standing necessary to pursue their claims.
This ruling will formally take effect on Friday, heralding a new phase in the ongoing debate over immigration policy.
The Department of Homeland Security announced on Thursday that the deadline for individuals who have been in the country for 30 days or longer to register is imminent, asserting that this registration requirement will be enforced rigorously.
In a statement released by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, she stated, “President Trump and I have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now. If you leave voluntarily, you may have the opportunity to return and pursue the American dream.” Noem further reinforced the Trump administration’s commitment to upholding all immigration laws, stating, “We will not selectively enforce laws. It is vital to know who resides in our country for the safety and security of all Americans.”
The Department of Homeland Security initiated warnings to undocumented immigrants in February, advising them to depart from the U.S. or face severe repercussions.
Secretary Noem also indicated that the DHS plans to enforce the Immigration and Nationality Act, established in 1952, which provides various mechanisms to track undocumented immigrants and encourage them to leave the country voluntarily.
Among these mechanisms are criminal penalties for those who fail to depart the U.S., neglect to register with the federal government, do not comply with fingerprinting requirements, or fail to inform government officials of address changes.
Those who do not leave the country may face criminal charges, leading to significant penalties, according to the DHS.
Additionally, individuals who do not register with the federal government face potential fines, imprisonment, or both. Registration is mandatory for all undocumented individuals aged 14 and older, requiring them to provide fingerprints and their residential address.
Notably, Canadians are also mandated to undergo the registration process if they have been present in the U.S. for over 30 days. This requirement extends to
