NJ’s Trenton The Laken Riley Act, a Republican-backed immigration bill that aims to speed up the deportation of criminal noncitizens before they commit violent crimes, was opposed by nine Senate Democrats, including U.S. Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey. With a resounding 84-9 majority on Thursday, the bill cleared a crucial procedural vote, passing the 60-vote barrier needed to start debate.
Supported by both parties, the new law aims to give the government the power to deport undocumented immigrants who have previously been convicted of crimes, even if they haven’t committed serious crimes. Critics have voiced worries about due process, overreach, and the measure’s effects on immigrant communities, while supporters contend it is an essential move to safeguard families and deter future crimes.
Kim was among the Senate Democrats who expressed opposition to the bill’s advancement, despite the fact that many others did. Their main worries are the bill’s wider ramifications for civil liberties and its ability to disproportionately target those who may have already served their terms for minor offenses.
The Laken Riley Act was approved by the Senate in the midst of a heightened emphasis on immigration enforcement and reform. Democrats have indicated their intention to submit changes prior to the final vote, which may change the law or halt its development even though the package currently has strong bipartisan support.
