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House Passes Laken Riley Act Mandating Detention of Undocumented Immigrants Charged with Theft, Burglary, and Shoplifting, 264-159

Jan 9, 2025, 02:01 PM

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Laken Riley Act with a bipartisan vote of 264 in favor and 159 against. The legislation mandates the detention of undocumented immigrants charged with certain crimes, including theft, burglary, and shoplifting. The bill was introduced in response to the murder of Laken Riley, with supporters arguing it will enhance public safety. Notably, 159 Democrats opposed the bill, while seven Democrats from California voted in favor, a notable increase from the previous year. The act is expected to advance in the Senate, where support has also been indicated by several Democratic senators, including Mark Kelly and Jon Ossoff. The Laken Riley Act reflects a shift in some Democratic lawmakers' positions on immigration and border security, influenced by recent electoral outcomes and public sentiment regarding crime and safety.