The U.S. House of Representatives approved a contentious bill on Tuesday, aiming to facilitate the deportation of undocumented immigrants charged with minor and non-violent offenses, such as shoplifting or petty theft.
With strong support from the Republican majority, the bill also saw backing from 48 Democratic representatives, sparking debate within the party and heightening political polarization over immigration issues. This legislation, passed with overwhelming support, seeks to toughen immigration policies in line with Donald Trump's promises to crack down on illegal immigration.
Named after Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student tragically killed last year in Georgia by a migrant previously arrested for shoplifting, the bill uses her story as the main impetus for its creation. The legislation now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to gain bipartisan support and could be passed by Friday.
If enacted, the law would expand the grounds for deportation of immigrants, including those accused of minor offenses like shoplifting, allowing federal authorities to detain undocumented immigrants charged with such infractions. The support from 48 Democrats has been interpreted by some media outlets, including The New York Times, as an attempt by party legislators to moderate their stance on immigration following their electoral defeat in November.
Some Democratic Party members have shifted toward stricter positions on this issue, aiming to align with an electorate demanding tougher immigration management. Conversely, Democrats opposing the bill have criticized it as unconstitutional, arguing that it delegates the power to set federal immigration policies to conservative state attorneys general.
Critics also argue that the law could further criminalize immigrants instead of focusing on policies that promote integrative and humanitarian solutions. The approval of this bill represents a significant advance in the Republican immigration agenda, adding to a broader package of measures they aim to push forward after gaining a majority in both the House and Senate in November's elections.
Furthermore, it may signal the beginning of stricter immigration laws under Donald Trump, who pledged during his campaign to undertake one of the largest mass deportations in American history during his upcoming term starting January 20th.
Understanding the New Immigration Bill
What offenses does the new immigration bill target?
The bill targets minor and non-violent offenses, such as shoplifting or petty theft, committed by undocumented immigrants.
Why is the bill named after Laken Riley?
The bill is named after Laken Riley, a nursing student who was tragically killed by a migrant previously arrested for shoplifting, which served as a catalyst for the legislation.
What are the criticisms against the bill?
Critics argue that the bill is unconstitutional and could lead to increased criminalization of immigrants, rather than addressing immigration with integrative and humanitarian policies.