- The proposed legislation grants states increased authority in managing migrants involved in criminal activities.
- Even minor infractions like jaywalking could lead to apprehension.
- Representative Collins expressed concern that the current criteria for detention are overly stringent.
A fresh federal bill, brought forth by a Georgia legislator representing the region where nursing student Laken Riley tragically lost her life, seeks to empower states in combatting federal immigration regulations regarding crimes perpetrated by migrants.
Spearheaded by Representative Mike Collins, R-Ga., the Laken Riley Act is designed to provide states with increased authority in addressing offenses committed by migrants. It is named after Riley, who was fatally attacked while running along a prominent trail at the University of Georgia.
Jose Ibarra, an undocumented immigrant, has been apprehended in connection with the tragic incident.
Collins informed NewsNation that he attributes Riley’s tragic death to the Biden administration’s failure to secure the U.S. southern border. He anticipates that the U.S. House of Representatives will soon vote on the bill, which aims to empower states with more authority in enforcing federal immigration laws regarding crimes committed by migrants.
“These individuals are engaging in criminal activities across the nation, often taking advantage of sanctuary cities,” Collins stated. “They move freely from one sanctuary city to another, facing minimal consequences.”
According to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Ibarra had previously been arrested in New York and charged with endangering a child under 17. However, New York authorities released him before he could be detained.
Collins emphasized that Ibarra’s release was due to the perceived lack of severity of the crime. He highlighted that under the proposed bill, the severity of offenses would not be a determining factor, potentially allowing for detention even for minor infractions like jaywalking.
Expressing concerns about the current criteria for detainment, Collins suggested that local officials need more authority to counteract the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). He added that the legislation would grant states the ability to legally challenge federal agencies such as DHS if they fail to fulfill their duties.
Collins told NewsNation that if passed, the bill would allow states to bypass the roadblocks created by sanctuary cities. He said he has had numerous conversations with Riley’s family and that they are in full support of legislation that will prevent this from happening to someone else.
He called the legislation necessary and said that if tougher laws were in place, Riley might still be alive.
“People are angry, just like the public,” Collins told NewsNation. “This is unnecessary. We all have children or nieces and nephews, and we’ve all known what it’s like to send them off somewhere and to feel like they’re supposed to be safe.
“And in this case, this family did the same thing. And look what happened. It is a failure that needs to be addressed.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of The Laken Riley Act?
The Laken Riley Act, as outlined by Representative Collins, seeks to enhance measures aimed at addressing undocumented immigrants.
Who is sponsoring The Laken Riley Act?
Representative Collins is sponsoring The Laken Riley Act.
What specific measures does The Laken Riley Act aim to strengthen?
The Act aims to bolster measures against undocumented immigrants, according to Representative Collins.
How does The Laken Riley Act address the issue of undocumented immigrants?
The Act aims to address the issue of undocumented immigrants by implementing stronger measures, as stated by Representative Collins.
What prompted the introduction of The Laken Riley Act?
The Act was introduced in response to specific concerns regarding undocumented immigrants, as explained by Representative Collins.
Conclusion
The Laken Riley Act, spearheaded by Representative Collins, represents a concerted effort to address challenges associated with undocumented immigrants. By seeking to strengthen measures against this demographic, the Act underscores the need for proactive solutions to enhance border security and address immigration-related issues. As it progresses through the legislative process, The Laken Riley Act holds the potential to enact meaningful changes aimed at safeguarding communities and ensuring adherence to federal immigration laws.
