Rep. Tom Emmer Introduces Bill Allowing Denaturalization for Certain Crimes

The proposed SCAM Act would permit revocation of citizenship for some naturalized citizens convicted of serious offenses within 10 years of naturalization.

By: Haitian prime news|January 20, 2026|Minnesota

Minnesota Congressman Tom Emmer on Tuesday introduced legislation that would expand the federal government’s authority to revoke U.S. citizenship from certain naturalized citizens convicted of serious crimes within a defined time frame after naturalization.

The proposed legislation, known as the Stop Citizenship Abuse and Misrepresentation (SCAM) Act, would establish a legal pathway to denaturalize individuals who, within ten years of becoming U.S. citizens, are convicted of fraud against the federal government, an aggravated felony, espionage, or who are found to have joined or affiliated with a foreign terrorist organization, according to Emmer’s office.

Emmer said the bill is intended to respond to large-scale fraud cases investigated in Minnesota and to reinforce what he described as the integrity of the naturalization process.

“Anyone who commits fraud against American taxpayers, affiliates with a terrorist organization, or commits an aggravated felony or espionage after becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen never met the requirements for naturalization in the first place and should be denaturalized and deported,” Emmer said in a statement.

The legislation comes amid ongoing federal investigations into alleged misuse of public funds connected to government assistance programs in Minnesota. Supporters argue the bill would strengthen accountability and deter fraud involving taxpayer money.

However, the proposal is expected to draw scrutiny from civil rights advocates and immigration groups, who have previously raised concerns about due process, selective enforcement, and the potential impact of denaturalization laws on immigrant communities.

The SCAM Act has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives and has not yet been scheduled for committee review.

Sources

CBS Minnesota

Statement from the Office of Rep. Tom Emmer