EC Georgia News

The House of Representatives has passed H.R. 29, known as the Laken Riley Act. This legislation mandates that U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE) detain illegal aliens who commit theft offenses until they are deported. It also allows states to file civil lawsuits against federal officials who do not enforce immigration laws.

Congressman Rick W. Allen, who co-introduced the act at the start of the 119th Congress, highlighted the bill's significance following a tragic incident involving Laken Hope Riley. Riley was killed by an illegal alien with a criminal history that included shoplifting in Athens-Clarke County.

In support of the bill, Congressman Allen stated: "It has been almost one year since we lost Laken Hope Riley, a beloved daughter, Augusta University nursing student, Georgian, and vibrant soul with her whole life ahead of her. While Laken's family and loved ones continue to mourn this heart-wrenching loss at the hands of a violent illegal alien, we know more must be done to prevent such tragedies from occurring."

He further emphasized that "as our first legislative measure of the 119th Congress, today's bipartisan passage of H.R. 29 sends a clear message that the days of lawlessness and chaos at our southern border are over." Congressman Allen urged his Senate colleagues to expedite passing the Laken Riley Act.