Washinton D.C. – Senator Katie Britt spoke with the Calhoun Journal today regarding the introduction of her first bill in the 119th Congress, the Laken Riley Act. This legislation, co-sponsored in the Senate by Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), and the entire Senate Republican Conference, aims to strengthen immigration enforcement and prevent tragedies like the one that claimed Laken Riley’s life.
Originally introduced in the House by Congressman Mike Collins (R-Ga.), the Laken Riley Act has garnered bipartisan attention, with 48 House Democrats supporting it in a recent vote. The bill seeks to hold federal agencies accountable for enforcing immigration laws and enable state and local officials to challenge federal inaction on immigration through legal means.
During the interview, Senator Britt reflected on the significance of the Laken Riley Act.
“Today, as we began the 119th Congress, I introduced my very first piece of legislation, the Laken Riley Act, a common-sense measure to secure our borders and save lives,” Britt said. “Laken Riley’s murder was preventable. Her killer, an illegal immigrant, had been released into the U.S. despite multiple arrests. This bill ensures that such failures won’t happen again.”
Britt emphasized the bipartisan nature of the legislation, expressing gratitude for Democratic support, including Senator John Fetterman, and encouraging broader cooperation. “This bill isn’t about politics; it’s about protecting American lives,” she said.
During the interview, the Calhoun Journal asked about potential concerns regarding the strain on local resources, Senator Britt responded with the importance of creating deterrents to prevent illegal immigration while ensuring America remains strong and safe. It stresses that those who enter the country illegally and commit crimes should face consequences. The speaker highlights the need for proper funding in FY25 and FY26 to support enforcement efforts, including the removal of individuals who have received final orders. It also stresses the need for proper channels for legal immigration and detention facilities to be available. The overall goal is to enforce laws effectively and create consequences for those who break them.
“We must ensure resources are in place to enforce our laws effectively,” Britt stated. “This includes funding for detention facilities and ensuring that individuals with final orders of removal are deported.”
The legislation empowers state and local law enforcement by allowing them to sue federal agencies for failing to enforce immigration laws. Britt highlighted the importance of addressing issues like sanctuary city policies and ensuring that federal agencies adhere to existing immigration laws.
“This bill gives states the tools they need to demand accountability from the federal government,” Britt explained. “It’s a step toward creating a safer, stronger America.”
Senator Britt also shared that Allyson and John Phillips, Laken Riley’s mother and stepfather, communicated their heartfelt support for the bill, describing the immense loss felt by their family and community. The Phillips family emphasized the importance of the legislation.
The Laken Riley Act would require U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to arrest illegal aliens who commit theft, burglary, larceny, or shoplifting offenses and mandate their detention until removal from the United States. It also ensures states have standing to bring civil actions against federal officials who refuse to enforce immigration law or violate the law.
The entire Senate Republican Conference has co-sponsored the Laken Riley Act, including Senators J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Susan Collins (R-Maine), among others. Notably, Senate Democrats, including Senator John Fetterman, have expressed their support.
In addition to introducing the Laken Riley Act, Senator Britt celebrated her new role as Deputy Whip for the Senate Republican Conference. She highlighted her commitment to building relationships across the aisle to advance legislative priorities.
“From day one, I’ve worked to earn the trust and respect of my colleagues,” Britt said. “This bipartisan support shows that we can achieve meaningful results for the American people.”
The Laken Riley Act, named in memory of a young woman tragically murdered in 2022, represents Britt’s commitment to prioritizing public safety and enforcing immigration laws. With growing bipartisan support, the legislation is poised for significant progress in the Senate.
