Fresh off President Donald Trump’s inauguration, the Senate on Monday passed the Laken Riley Act, a Bill requiring federal authorities to detain migrants accused of theft and violent crimes. This marks the first measure Trump is expected to sign into law, reinforcing his commitment to a broad crackdown on illegal immigration.
The Bill passed with a 64-35 vote, with 12 Democrats joining Republicans in support. The measure reflects a significant shift in congressional attitudes toward border security and immigration enforcement. The Republican-controlled House previously approved a version of the bill, but it must now reconcile changes made in the Senate.
Named after a Georgia nursing student whose murder by a Venezuelan man became a campaign rallying point for Trump, the Laken Riley Act underscores the administration’s tough stance on immigration. Trump has already begun reversing former President Joe Biden’s policies, emphasising stricter enforcement over humane approaches.
Key Provisions of the Laken Riley Act
The bill mandates the detention of migrants accused of crimes, including shoplifting, and expands its scope to include assaults on police officers and crimes causing severe injury or death. Additionally, it grants states the ability to legally challenge federal immigration decisions.
Supporters of the bill, including Senator Katie Britt, argue that those entering the country illegally and committing crimes should not be allowed to remain. Democratic supporters, such as Senator Catherine Cortez Masto and Senator John Fetterman, stress that a secure border can coexist with immigration support.
Opponents of the bill argue it could lead to legal challenges from Republican state attorneys general, further politicising immigration policy. Democratic leaders have expressed concerns about its impact on legal immigrants and programs like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).
Funding Challenges
Implementing the Laken Riley Act hinges on Congress securing the estimated $100 billion required for border security and enforcement. The bill currently lacks funding, with Democrats estimating it would cost $83 billion over the next three years. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would need to significantly expand detention facilities and removal operations.
The debate over funding and implementation continues as Republicans explore options to pass border security funding through budget reconciliation. However, challenges remain in balancing fiscal constraints with the political push for stricter enforcement.
The passage of the Laken Riley Act signals a major shift in U.S. immigration policy under Trump’s leadership. As lawmakers grapple with funding and practical implementation, the impact of this legislation on immigrants and the broader immigration system will continue to unfold.
(With AP inputs)
