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Documented: Trump Immigrant Registration Plan Is a Scare Tactic, Law Experts Say

The Trump administration plans to revive a World War II-era law requiring immigrants aged 14 and older, who entered the U.S. without a visa, to register with the federal government within 30 days of arrival, including submitting fingerprints. Noncitizens over 14, or parents of noncitizens under 14, who “willfully” fail to register could face up to six months in jail or a $1,000 fine. Adults who fail to carry proof of registration may be charged with a misdemeanor and fined up to $100.

Speaking with Documented, Anthony Enriquez, Vice President of U.S. Advocacy and Litigation at Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, clarified that “willful” failure requires awareness of the registration requirement. He also cautioned that enforcing proof-carrying could have broad implications for the criminal justice system, potentially affecting U.S. citizens.

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