House · HR 3486 · 119th Congress
Stop Illegal Entry Act of 2025
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Summary
This bill raises prison terms for people who enter the United States illegally and later commit a felony or try to re-enter after being removed. First-time illegal entry now carries up to 5 years in prison instead of 2. People removed after a felony conviction who re-enter face a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.
In Favor
Tougher sentences send a clear message that illegal entry has real consequences. People who break immigration law and then commit felonies pose a serious risk to public safety. Stronger penalties may stop repeat offenders from coming back after removal.
Against
Mandatory minimums remove a judge's ability to weigh the facts of each case. Long prison terms cost taxpayers heavily in housing and court costs. People with minor records could face sentences that do not fit their actual situation.
Additional Considerations
Purpose & Problem
Is the problem real and worth federal action?
This bill raises prison terms for people who enter the United States without permission and later commit a felony or enter again after being removed. Congress states the bill targets repeated unlawful entry and related crimes.
Scope & Related Provisions
Does it stay focused, or carry unrelated add-ons?
The bill stays focused on penalties for unlawful entry and reentry after removal. All sections address prison terms or fines tied to those two actions.
Who Is Affected
Who benefits, and who bears the cost?
People removed from the United States who try to return face longer prison terms under this bill. Federal courts and the Department of Homeland Security take on new duties to apply the updated penalty rules.
Cost & Funding
Is it affordable and responsibly funded?
The bill does not authorize or appropriate any specific dollar amount. It shifts costs onto federal courts and agencies to prosecute and imprison more people under the higher penalty ranges.
Risks & Implementation
What could go wrong in practice?
The bill sets mandatory minimum prison terms that judges must apply, leaving little room to adjust for individual cases. Courts and federal prisons would need to handle any increase in prosecutions and longer sentences the bill requires.
For the actual bill text, see congress.gov.
AI-generated · Published 6/5/2026