Known as the Laken Riley Act, the bill passed the House on Tuesday by 264 votes to 159. Among the backers, 48 Democrats joined Republicans, marking an increase in bipartisan support over a similar measure passed in the previous Congress, when only 37 Democrats voted in favor. Notably, Democratic Representative Stephen F. Lynch, of Massachusetts’ 8th district, lent his support.
The bill is named after a Georgia student tragically killed last year while jogging. The tragedy reignited debates around immigration and crime.
The law provides for the mandatory detention of undocumented immigrants accused of crimes such as theft or burglary. The case behind this measure involves an illegal Venezuelan national, sentenced to life imprisonment for this crime.
Although the bill has passed the House, its passage in the Senate promises to be complex. With a Republican majority of 53 seats, at least seven Democratic senators will have to join forces to reach the 60 votes needed to avoid a filibuster.
In addition, the delayed swearing-in of Republican Senator Jim Justice of West Virginia temporarily deprives the party of crucial support this week, further complicating the situation.
Despite the divisions, some Democrats are voicing their support for the measure. Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania told CNN:
“Laken Riley’s story is a tragic reminder of the importance of protecting our fellow citizens. No family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to preventable violence.”
For his part, Senator Gary Peters of Michigan affirmed his support, citing concerns about border security and protecting Americans. On the other hand, Ruben Gallego, Arizona’s new Democratic senator, said he was still evaluating the project.
Republican Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming emphasized the importance of bipartisan support, saying, “This is now a bipartisan bill; Fetterman endorsed it.”
The passage of the Laken Riley Act reflects the GOP’s desire to put immigration reform at the heart of its legislative agenda, notably by stepping up deportations of illegal immigrants. However, divisions persist within the Republican Party, notably over the strategy to be adopted: favoring a comprehensive legislative program or splitting efforts into several separate texts.
The Senate is expected to vote on the measure in the coming days. If passed, the legislation would allow the deportation of immigrants accused of minor offenses, reinforcing the strict immigration policy advocated by the GOP.