House Passes Laken Riley Act on Immigration

The U.S. Senate is preparing to vote on the Laken Riley Act, a controversial immigration bill aimed at expanding detention policies for undocumented immigrants charged with certain crimes, following its bipartisan passage in the House. The bill honors Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student killed by an undocumented migrant, and passed in the House with 264 votes, including support from 48 Democrats. While some Senate Democrats have pledged support, others express concerns over potential racial profiling and unfunded mandates. Critics, including civil rights organizations, argue that it threatens civil liberties and increases the risk of racial discrimination in law enforcement. The bill would empower state attorneys general to challenge federal immigration policies, mirroring the far-right's focus on stricter immigration enforcement. The upcoming Senate vote is significant, as the bill requires 60 votes to pass, necessitating bipartisan support.