You zeroed on the definition of what is illegal and really wanted to go down that road more than the question of 'what do you suggest?'
I tried to give a little of both in the time permitted.
You present it in a way that is black and white - and universally applicable.
Even the enforcement of such laws always account for more than just the legality in and of itself and is never enforced universally.
In the case of the Dreamers -- you have people who ended up on the other side of the law, but did not actually choose to commit an illegal act.
Those who chose to come here illegally did so at a great risk, perhaps aware of the consequences.
The meting out of justice always considers motive for the illegal act in addition to its legality and illegality.
Furthermore, it depends on the mood of the prosecutor and the judge.
There is never a universal punishment attached to a crime.
Going 50 today, I did indeed deserve a ticket on several occasions, but it did not happen that way. I get away with that crime quite often.
Yet, that infraction could be met with all kinds of responses. It could be universal that all who go fifteen over are subject to a fine of whatever the amount is these days. However, the officer could also choose to give a warning if she so chooses or if the chief allows for such a thing.
Then at court, I may or may not be successful in defending the ticket.
As object as you want to make the law in this 'nation of laws'....we know good and well that it is subjective all around.
For those who chose to break the law --- that could be dealt with....but for those born on the other side of the law with no choice of their own, I believe that HAS to be handled differently.
You seem to know a thing or two about law and if that's the case....you know what I said ends up being true.