Bipartisan ‘Laken Riley Act’ Aims to Strengthen Immigration Law Enforcement and Public Safety

Document of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act.

The Laken Riley Act, a bipartisan effort to strengthen immigration law enforcement, gains momentum in Congress with support from both sides of the aisle.

At a Glance

  • Bipartisan support for the Laken Riley Act, including Senator John Fetterman (D-PA)
  • Bill aims to detain illegal aliens accused of minor crimes until deportation
  • Legislation allows states to sue federal officials for non-enforcement of immigration laws
  • Act named after Laken Riley, a student murdered by an illegal alien with prior offenses
  • Senate vote coincides with what would have been Riley’s 23rd birthday

Bipartisan Support for Stricter Immigration Enforcement

U.S. Senator Katie Britt introduced the Laken Riley Act in the 119th Congress, garnering support from Senators Ted Budd, John Thune, John Fetterman, and the entire Senate Republican Conference. The bill, previously passed in the House but blocked by Senate Democrats in the 118th Congress, aims to require Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to arrest and detain illegal aliens who commit theft, burglary, larceny, or shoplifting until they are removed from the United States.

The legislation has gained significant attention due to its bipartisan nature, with Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) being the only Senate Democrat to co-sponsor the bill. This move has sparked discussions about the potential for broader Democratic support in addressing immigration enforcement issues.

Key Provisions and Implications

The Laken Riley Act includes provisions that allow states to bring civil actions against federal officials who do not enforce immigration laws. This measure is designed to ensure accountability and prompt action in cases involving illegal immigrants with criminal records. The bill also empowers state attorneys general to sue for injunctive relief if the federal government fails to enforce the law.

“Laken Riley’s story is a tragic reminder of what’s at stake when our systems fail to protect people. No family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to preventable violence. I support giving authorities the tools to prevent tragedies like this one while we work on comprehensive solutions to our broken system.” – Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA)

The Act is positioned as a commonsense measure to enhance community safety and prevent tragedies similar to the one that befell Laken Riley. Supporters argue that it will close enforcement gaps that have allowed illegal aliens with prior offenses to remain in the country.

Legislative Hurdles and Political Landscape

While the House passed the bill with a vote of 264-159, including 48 Democrats, the Senate faces a more challenging path. To overcome a 60-vote filibuster, at least eight Democrats would need to join Republicans in supporting the legislation. The upcoming Senate vote, scheduled to coincide with what would have been Laken Riley’s 23rd birthday, adds emotional weight to the proceedings.

“It’s impossible to fully describe what was taken from Laken and from our family on February 22, 2024. Laken’s life was abundantly and exceptionally full of promise. She was a beautiful, shining beacon in the life of everyone who knew her. Not only did the people who knew and loved Laken lose a beautiful soul, but so did our world. Laken shared her love for Jesus with everyone she encountered. Laken’s passion for sharing her faith through acts of kindness were felt by everyone she met. Laken was selfless, hardworking and made those around her feel special. Laken did not just talk about her faith, she led by example,” said Allyson and John Phillips, Laken Riley’s mother and stepfather.

As the debate unfolds, some Democrats have expressed reservations about the bill. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) criticized it as flawed and potentially leading to unproductive lawsuits. However, other swing state Senate Democrats, including Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), are reportedly considering supporting the Act, which could significantly impact its chances of passage.

Looking Ahead

The Laken Riley Act represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and public safety. As both parties grapple with the complexities of the issue, the bipartisan support for this legislation suggests a growing consensus on the need for stricter measures to address criminal activities by illegal immigrants. The outcome of the Senate vote will likely have far-reaching implications for immigration policy and could set the tone for future bipartisan efforts in this contentious arena.

Sources:

  1. U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Ted Budd, John Thune, John Fetterman, Colleagues Introduce Laken Riley Act in 119th Congress
  2. Senate Democrats wrestle with Republicans’ Laken Riley Act to combat illegal immigration | News | gazette.com
  3. Fetterman backs GOP-led Laken Riley Act: ‘Tools to prevent tragedies’
  4. Democrat John Fetterman Joins Republicans to Sponsor ‘Laken Riley Act’

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR