SE North Carolina News

Senators Ted Budd and Katie Britt have reintroduced the Laken Riley Act in Congress. This bipartisan bill aims to address issues related to immigration enforcement, particularly concerning illegal aliens who commit certain crimes such as theft and burglary. The proposed legislation mandates that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detain these individuals until they are removed from the United States.

The bill is named after Laken Riley, a University of Georgia student who was murdered by an illegal alien previously cited for theft and shoplifting but released. Her family has expressed support for the legislation, stating: "Laken’s life was abundantly and exceptionally full of promise... The Laken Riley Act has our full support because it would help save innocent lives."

Senator Budd stated: "What happened to Laken Riley should never happen to any American citizen." He emphasized the need for enforcing laws to prevent similar tragedies. Senator Britt highlighted that Laken's murder resulted from open-border policies, adding: "Congress has an obligation...to do everything in our power to help prevent this type of tragedy."

Majority Leader John Thune also voiced his support, noting: "There is an urgent need to take action regarding the border crisis." Senator John Fetterman added a perspective on immigration reform, saying: "I support giving authorities the tools to prevent tragedies like this one while we work on comprehensive solutions."

In the House of Representatives, Rep. Mike Collins leads efforts for the bill's passage. He remarked on local law enforcement's challenges due to insufficient tools: "Laken fought until her last breath, and so will I until this bill crosses the finish line."

The bill empowers state attorneys general to sue if federal immigration actions harm their states or citizens.