In a move that has both fiscal conservatives cheering and open-border activists fuming, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a bold new policy to encourage illegal aliens to leave the United States voluntarily—on the government’s dime. And believe it or not, it’s actually a massive cost-saver for American taxpayers.
As reported by Fox News correspondent Bill Melugin, DHS will now pay for commercial flights for illegal immigrants who agree to self-deport. Even more surprising, those who participate in the program will receive a $1,000 stipend after their departure is verified. That’s right: if you came here illegally, and you leave on your own terms, you walk away with a government-funded airline ticket and a thousand bucks.
To qualify, illegal migrants must register through the CBP Home app, file their intent to leave, and agree not to fight their removal. The kicker? Self-deporters won’t be barred from legally returning to the United States in the future, provided they do it the right way next time. It’s a carrot-and-stick approach with some teeth behind it.
DHS officials argue the numbers speak for themselves. It currently costs more than $17,000 to arrest, detain, and forcibly deport just one illegal immigrant. Under the new plan, the total cost drops to around $4,500—including airfare and the stipend—netting a savings of at least $12,500 per person, or roughly 70%. That doesn’t even touch the long-term savings.
According to Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, when factoring in years of taxpayer-funded services such as welfare, public schooling, and medical costs, the savings per illegal alien family could top $1 million. That’s a number even the biggest deficit hawks can’t ignore.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem put it bluntly in a statement to Fox News: “If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest.”
“This is the safest option for our law enforcement, aliens and is a 70% savings for US taxpayers,” Noem added. “Download the CBP Home App TODAY and self-deport.”
While critics will undoubtedly label this policy as “bribing” illegals to leave, the reality is that it’s a cost-effective, humane solution that frees up resources, reduces law enforcement risk, and prioritizes the rule of law.
And for once, common sense just might be making a comeback in Washington.
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