Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Ted Budd have successfully advanced the Laken Riley Act through the Senate with a 64-35 vote. This legislation, described as a significant step in immigration enforcement and border security, is now set to be reviewed by the U.S. House of Representatives before reaching President Trump for final approval.

Senator Britt expressed her satisfaction with the bill's passage, stating, "Today is a new day in America and a new day in the U.S. Senate with the passage of the Laken Riley Act—which will become the strongest immigration enforcement bill enacted into law since 1996."

The Senate approved two amendments to strengthen the act. Senator John Cornyn's amendment added assault of a law enforcement officer to the list of criminal offenses covered by the bill, passing with a 70-25 vote. Additionally, Senator Joni Ernst's Sarah’s Law was incorporated, mandating detention for illegal aliens involved in crimes causing death or serious injury, which passed by 75-24.

Reflecting on the bill's significance, Senator Britt remarked on its dedication to Laken Riley: “Today’s monumental vote honors the beautiful life and enduring legacy of Laken Riley." She emphasized that this would be President Trump's first landmark bill signing and underscored its importance for securing borders and protecting communities.

Allyson and John Phillips, parents of Laken Riley, shared their gratitude: “This is a truly momentous day... We thank Senators Katie Britt and Ted Budd for their diligent, bipartisan work to get this bill through.”

The proposed legislation mandates ICE to detain illegal aliens committing specific offenses such as theft or burglary to prevent reoffending. It also allows states to take civil action against federal officials who fail to enforce immigration laws.

Senator Budd commented on the achievement: “Passage of the Laken Riley Act is a victory for law and order and safety."

The act was reintroduced in Congress by Senators Britt and Budd alongside Republican colleagues and Democrats John Fetterman and Ruben Gallego.