Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Pass the Stop Illegal Entry Act of 2025

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.-Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 3486, the Stop Illegal Entry Act of 2025, legislation that delivers tough new penalties for individuals who illegally enter or reenter the United States after being deported.

"Illegal entry into this country is not a minor offense-it is a direct attack on the rule of law and the safety of American families," said Congressman Harrigan. "This bill makes clear that if you violate our borders and commit crimes on U.S. soil, you will face real consequences. The days of catch-and-release and wrist-slap penalties must end."

The Stop Illegal Entry Act of 2025 amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to:

• Increase the maximum penalty for unlawful entry from 2 years to 5 years in prison.
• Require a minimum 5-year sentence for any illegal entrant who is later convicted of a serious crime.
• Impose up to 10 years in prison for those who reenter after deportation, with higher penalties for repeat offenders and those with prior convictions.
• Mandate a 10-year minimum sentence-up to life-for aggravated felons who reenter the country.

By raising penalties and closing loopholes, the bill ensures that repeat offenders, violent criminals, and traffickers face the full weight of U.S. law.

The bill now heads to the Senate, where Congressman Harrigan is pressing for swift passage, warning that every day of delay leaves American families at risk.