Jan 22, 2025 - Politics & Policy

House passes Laken Riley Act, sending bill to Trump's desk

Erin Doherty

American flags are displayed on the West Front of the US Capitol building, where the presidential inauguration traditionally takes place, on January 17, 2025, in Washington, DC. US President-elect Donald Trump said on January 17, 2025 that his inauguration as US president on January 20 will be moved — The West Front of the US Capitol building on Jan. 17, 2025. Photo: Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images

The House on Wednesday passed the Laken Riley Act, sending the immigration bill to President Trump's desk for his signature.

Why it matters: The measure, which would require the detention of undocumented immigrants arrested for some crimes, is poised to be the first bill Trump signs into law during his second term.

The legislation is named for a 22-year-old nursing student who was killed on the University of Georgia campus. Its passage hands Trump an early win on a key campaign priority.

Driving the news: The bill passed the House 263-156, with 46 Democrats voting for it.

48 Democrats voted for the bill earlier this month, before the Senate added two amendments.
Those included one from Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), requiring ICE to detain undocumented immigrants who attack law enforcement, Axios' Stephen Neukam and Stef Kight reported.
The other, from Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), adds those who commit crimes that cause death or bodily harm.

Zoom out: The Senate passed the measure earlier this week 64-35, with 12 Democrats voting for it.

Go deeper: Laken Riley Act clears critical Senate hurdle

Editor's note: This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

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House passes Laken Riley Act, sending bill to Trump's desk

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