The Laken Riley Act, a piece of legislation focused on expanding the federal government’s authority to detain undocumented immigrants, was recently given the green light by the House. The law, which is slated to be the first signed by President Trump in his new term, was passed by a 263 to 156 vote on Wednesday.

Named after a 22-year-old nursing student, Laken Riley, who tragically lost her life at the hands of an illegal Venezuelan immigrant, the Act aims to extend compulsory detention to noncitizens convicted of, or charged with, crimes such as burglary, theft, larceny, or shoplifting. It also targets those who confess to these offenses. The Act also provides state attorneys general with the ability to take legal action against the federal government if they believe their state or residents have been negatively impacted by immigration policies.

Republican Representative Chip Roy of Texas championed the legislation in the House, arguing it was necessary to detain the most dangerous illegal immigrants. However, some Democrats countered this narrative, pointing out the pardons granted by President Trump to individuals convicted for their roles in the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021, and questioning the Republicans’ sincerity in their stance on crime.

The Act was previously approved by the House with a 264 to 159 vote, showing bipartisan support. The Senate then amended the legislation to include the assault of a law enforcement officer and crimes resulting in severe bodily harm or death as grounds for mandatory detention. Despite some Democratic opposition to the expanded scope and provisions of the Act, 12 Senate Democrats ultimately voted in favor, enabling its passage.

The bill’s passage comes after it stalled in the Senate last year, which was then under Democratic control. However, the 2024 election, where immigration was a focal point, seems to have prompted Democrats to reconsider their stance on the Act.

Despite the bill’s approval, some Democrats have raised concerns about the ability of Immigration and Customs Enforcement to enforce this new mandate effectively without additional funding.

This legislation represents a significant development in the ongoing immigration debate, and will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for both illegal immigrants and the broader society.