The U.S. Senate moved closer to passing a controversial bill on Thursday, aiming to expand deportation measures for undocumented immigrants charged with minor crimes. The legislation, which received significant bipartisan support in the House earlier this week, is expected to gain President Donald Trump’s approval upon his inauguration later this month.
Named the Laken Riley Act, the bill honors a 22-year-old nursing student from Georgia who was tragically killed by an undocumented migrant previously arrested for shoplifting. The proposed law mandates the detention and potential deportation of undocumented individuals charged with crimes such as burglary, theft, and shoplifting.
The Senate vote marked a significant shift among Democrats, with most joining Republicans to advance the measure. Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) expressed strong support, stating, “We must give law enforcement the means to take action to prevent tragedies like what occurred to Laken Riley.” However, some Democrats, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), emphasized the need for amendments to refine the bill before final approval.
Republicans, led by Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), argued that the legislation would provide essential tools for immigration enforcement, ensuring individuals like Riley’s killer face consequences before committing violent crimes. Grassley stated, “Laken’s killer robbed a business before he robbed Laken of her life.”
Critics, including immigration advocates, have raised concerns about potential overreach. They warn that the bill could lead to deportations without due process and allow conservative state attorneys general to influence federal immigration policies. Aaron Reichlin-Melnick of the American Immigration Council highlighted these risks, calling the provisions “serious concerns.”
The bill faces another Senate vote next week before requiring a simple majority for final passage. If enacted, it would mark a significant step in the Trump administration’s broader efforts to strengthen immigration enforcement.