The "punishment" we are talking about here is simply deportation - it would be devastating to those of us to those of us who are legally importing loved ones to live with our families here, but no big deal to those who are illegally here to work. Devastating especially because of the effect it might have on subsequent visa applications. Those who are here to work are simply sent BACK to where there loved ones are, and can turn around and make another illegal attempt. Same penalty in the eyes of the law, but a vastly different effect. To say that nothing is done ignores the numbers of illegals that are either barred from entry, or sent back home. That the percentage is low simply says that the border patrol is overwhelmed. The fact that the overwhelming majority are from Mexico simply says that Mexico is that much closer than China. As far as enforcement, do we know of anyone forcibly sent back home? By following the law, we avoid having to dodge the law, and also the potentially devastating consequences if we are caught.