The Senate passed the Laken Riley Act, marking the first legislation to clear the upper chamber in the new Congress following Trump’s inauguration.
The big picture: The bill, which received a vote of 64-35, requires the federal detention of immigrants without legal status accused of theft and burglary.
- The legislation was supported by twelve Democrats who voted alongside every Republican.
- The Laken Riley Act aims to address concerns related to illegal aliens accused of crimes like theft or assault against law enforcement officers, ensuring their detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Driving the news: The bill is named after Laken Riley, a college student who lost her life to a Venezuelan migrant with a criminal record who had been paroled in the US after a shoplifting arrest.
State of play: The Senate engaged in extensive debate over the bill, with Democrats seeking amendments to address concerns around detainment procedures and cost implications.
- Despite Democrats’ efforts to amend the bill, only three amendments were voted on, with two being adopted.
- Senator Joni Ernst’s “Sarah’s Law” amendment, expanding detainment criteria to include migrants charged with crimes causing death or serious bodily injury, was approved in a 75-24 vote.
- The Democratic amendment that would have removed the provision allowing state attorneys general to sue federal immigration officials over detentions was not adopted.
- Concerns were raised about the bill’s cost of nearly $27 billion in the first year and the practical challenges in its enforcement due to resource constraints.
What we’re watching: The bill now moves to the House for approval before reaching President Trump’s desk for signing.
What they’re saying: “This legislation will ensure that illegal aliens who steal or assault a law enforcement officer are detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement instead of being allowed out on the streets,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said before the vote. “I’m looking forward to getting this legislation to the president’s desk.”