SE North Carolina News

Senator Ted Budd of North Carolina has announced the passage of the Laken Riley Act in the U.S. Senate. The bill, which he introduced alongside Senator Katie Britt of Alabama on January 7, 2025, aims to enforce stricter immigration measures.

The legislation is named after Laken Riley, a nursing student who was murdered last year by an illegal alien on the University of Georgia campus. The perpetrator had prior arrests for theft and shoplifting but was released. The act mandates that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrest illegal aliens involved in theft-related crimes and detain them until deportation.

Representative Mike Collins from Georgia led the bill's introduction in the House.

Senator Budd stated, “Passage of the Laken Riley Act is a victory for law and order and safety. What happened to Laken Riley should never happen to any American citizen.” He expressed pride in leading this legislation with other senators and anticipated President Trump's approval.

Senator Britt remarked on the significance of the act: “Today is a new day in America... I was honored to lead a bipartisan group of my colleagues to pass this lifesaving legislation.” She emphasized its importance as an immigration enforcement measure since 1996 and highlighted its role in securing borders and protecting communities.

Laken Riley’s mother Allyson and stepfather John Phillips shared their sentiments: “This is a truly momentous day... There is no greater gift imaginable to Laken and our country.” They expressed gratitude towards Senators Britt, Budd, Congressman Collins, and those who supported their cause through prayers.