In a significant move this week, Congress greenlit a new bill that mandates the detention of undocumented migrants charged with specific crimes. The legislation, known as the Laken Riley Act, sailed through the House with a vote of 263 to 156, with 46 Democrats joining Republicans in support.

This marks a major early win for President Donald Trump and the GOP, who have made tightening immigration rules a key focus. The bill now heads to the White House for final approval after the Senate gave it the thumbs up earlier.

Under the new law, the Department of Homeland Security will be required to detain migrants in the U.S. illegally if they’ve been accused of, arrested for, or convicted of crimes like theft, burglary, or assault on law enforcement. Senate amendments expanded the list to include offenses resulting in death or serious injury.

Named after Laken Riley, a Georgia student tragically killed in 2023, the bill reignites the national debate over immigration and safety. However, it also sparked division among Democrats, with some calling it a necessary step and others warning it could erode civil liberties and public safety.

One contentious provision allows state attorneys general to sue over federal immigration decisions, such as releasing detainees or blocking visa sanctions against uncooperative countries. Critics argue this could strain law enforcement and foreign policy efforts.

But implementing the law won’t be easy. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has warned that it lacks the resources to enforce it fully. The agency estimates needing an additional 110,000 detention beds and $3.2 billion in funding—far beyond its current capacity.

This bill is part of a broader push by Trump to crack down on immigration, including declaring a national emergency at the southern border and targeting birthright citizenship. While it’s a big legislative win, the road ahead is bumpy as logistical and financial challenges loom.

Stay tuned as this story unfolds.