Wed Jan 22 22:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Laken Riley Act Passes Congress, Headed to Trump’s Desk
**WASHINGTON** – The House of Representatives passed the Laken Riley Act Wednesday, sending the strict immigration detention bill to President Donald Trump for his signature. This marks the first legislation Trump is expected to sign following his return to the White House this week.
The bill, named for a Georgia nursing student murdered last year by an undocumented immigrant with a prior shoplifting citation, passed by a vote of 263-156, with bipartisan support. Forty-six Democrats joined all Republicans in voting for the measure, which previously cleared the Senate by a vote of 64-35.
The Laken Riley Act mandates that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detain undocumented immigrants charged, arrested, or convicted of burglary, theft, larceny, or shoplifting. Amendments added assault on a police officer and acts causing death or bodily harm to the list of offenses triggering mandatory detention.
The bill’s passage follows the conviction of Jose Ibarra, the Venezuelan citizen responsible for Riley’s murder. Ibarra’s prior shoplifting incident, which did not result in ICE detention, became a central point in the 2024 election campaign for Republicans, who championed stricter immigration enforcement.
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise framed the bill as a measure to prevent future tragedies, while proponents argued it addresses concerns about public safety. Opponents, however, criticized the legislation as overly punitive, an unfunded mandate with potentially billions in costs, and a violation of due process for immigrants. The bill’s passage reflects a shift in the political landscape, with immigration emerging as a key voter concern in the 2024 election.
While some Democrats in competitive districts supported the bill, others argued for a more comprehensive approach to immigration reform. House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar acknowledged the internal party divisions but emphasized the need to balance competing priorities.
Laken Riley’s father expressed gratitude for the bill’s passage, acknowledging the political ramifications of his daughter’s death. Pro-immigration groups, however, continue to denounce the legislation as a harmful overreach.
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