Stop Illegal Reentry Act

This bill raises criminal penalties for non-U.S. citizens who were removed or denied entry and then come back or try to come back without approval. The general maximum prison time goes up from 2 years to 5 years, with fines still possible. In some cases, the penalties are tougher: people with certain prior crimes, or who have been removed multiple times, can face up to 10 years. One 10-year sentence in the bill cannot be served at the same time as another sentence. For those previously convicted of an aggravated felony, or with at least two prior illegal reentry convictions, there is a mandatory prison term of at least 5 years and up to 20 years, plus possible fines. The bill also clarifies that “removal” includes certain agreed removals in court proceedings.

Key points

• Who is affected: Non-U.S. citizens who were removed or denied entry and reenter or try to reenter without approval from the Department of Homeland Security.
• What changes: General max penalty increases to 5 years (from 2); up to 10 years for repeat removals or certain criminal histories; and a mandatory 5–20 years for those with an aggravated felony or two prior illegal reentry convictions .
• Other details: One listed 10-year sentence must be served separately from any other sentence; “removal” includes certain agreed removals during criminal cases.