House Votes on First Bill: 'Laken Riley Act' to Deport Criminal Illegal Immigrants; Fetterman Backs

Jan 7, 2025, 02:24 PM

The U.S. House of Representatives is set to vote today, January 7, 2025, on the "Laken Riley Act," marking the first legislative vote of the 119th Congress. Named after Laken Riley, who was tragically killed by an illegal immigrant last year, the bill aims to require Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain and deport illegal immigrants charged with theft-related crimes before they can commit further offenses. The act had previously passed the House but stalled in the Democrat-controlled Senate. With the new Republican majority, it is expected to pass swiftly. Notably, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) has become the first Democratic cosponsor in the Senate, joining Republican Senator Katie Britt, indicating bipartisan support. Representatives like Mike Collins (R-GA) are urging colleagues to support the bill to prevent future tragedies. The legislation is part of a broader early immigration crackdown by Congress ahead of President Trump's inauguration on January 20, with plans to have the bill ready for his signature.