The Senate approved the Laken Riley Act in a 64-35 vote, marking the first major legislation passed in the new Congress. All Republicans and 12 Democrats supported the bill, which mandates federal detention of immigrants without legal status accused of crimes like theft and assault. Named after a college student killed by a migrant, the bill prioritizes stricter immigration policies under President Trump’s administration.
Amendments expanded the bill to include charges for crimes causing death or serious injury. However, Democrats expressed concerns over costs, estimated at $27 billion in the first year, and criticized provisions allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain migrants upon arrest rather than conviction.
The legislation must now pass the House again before reaching Trump’s desk. Internal divisions among Senate Democrats highlight ongoing debates over immigration policy.
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