American lawmakers were relentless in their pursuit to halt Chinese immigration to the United States. The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was a significant step, as it not only banned Chinese immigration for a decade but also implemented new regulations such as requiring 'certificates of registration' for workers seeking to return. This legislation marked a notable shift in U.S. immigration policy, establishing illegal immigration as a crime that could lead to deportation.

Furthermore, the act mandated that Chinese officials must examine travelers from Asia, reflecting a broader pattern of increasing scrutiny and restrictions on immigration. This legislation was pivotal as it marked the first time the U.S. actively penalized illegal immigration, illustrating the growing tension and discrimination against Chinese immigrants during that era.