What You Need to Know About The Laken Riley Act
- RAQUEL MARQUEZ
- Jan 22
- 2 min read
The Laken Riley Act is a U.S. immigration bill that mandates the detention of undocumented immigrants charged with or convicted of theft-related crimes, including burglary, larceny, theft, and shoplifting. It also allows state attorneys general to sue the federal government if immigration laws are not properly enforced. The bill is named after Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student from Georgia who was tragically murdered by an undocumented immigrant in 2024.
Key Provisions:
Mandatory Detention: The Act requires the Department of Homeland Security to detain undocumented immigrants charged with or convicted of specific crimes, such as theft-related offenses.
State Legal Actions: It grants state attorneys general the authority to sue the federal government if they believe immigration laws are not being enforced adequately.
Legislative History:
House of Representatives: The bill was first introduced in March 2024 and passed with bipartisan support. It was reintroduced in January 2025 and passed again, marking the first significant legislation of the 119th Congress.
Senate: The Senate passed an amended version of the bill on January 20, 2025, with support from both Republicans and Democrats.
Criticism and Concerns:
Due Process: Critics argue that the Act could undermine constitutional protections and due process rights for immigrants, potentially leading to detention without proper hearings.
Implementation Costs: There are concerns about the high costs associated with implementing the Act, with estimates suggesting it could cost $26.9 billion in the first year.
State vs. Federal Authority: The provision allowing state attorneys general to challenge federal immigration decisions has raised questions about the balance of power between state and federal authorities.
Support and Rationale:
Public Safety: Proponents argue that the Act addresses criminal activity by immigrants and enhances public safety by ensuring that individuals charged with serious crimes are detained.
Bipartisan Support: The bill has received bipartisan support, with both Republicans and Democrats voting in favor, reflecting a shared concern over immigration-related crimes.
As of January 22, 2025, the Laken Riley Act has passed both the House and Senate and is awaiting President Trump's signature to become law.
New York Post
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