President Trump signs the first law of the second term, mandating ICE custody for illegal immigrants committing certain crimes.
Laken Riley Act Signed to Strengthen Immigration Enforcement
WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Donald Trump has signed the Laken Riley Act into law, marking the first legislative action of his second term. The law, aimed at tightening immigration enforcement, mandates that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detain undocumented immigrants who commit a range of offenses, including theft, burglary, shoplifting, and violent crimes resulting in bodily harm or death.
The act, named after Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student murdered by an undocumented immigrant in 2024, has stirred significant debate. Rep. Tim Walberg (MI-05), who supported the bill, emphasized its role in “safeguarding our communities from violent crime.”
Michigan Representative Walberg Supports Immigration Crackdown
Congressman Tim Walberg, representing Michigan’s 5th Congressional District, was among the lawmakers pushing for swift passage of the bill. After voting in favor of the act on January 7, 2025, Walberg supported the Senate-amended version, which expanded the list of crimes warranting detention. The House passed the final version on January 22, 2025, in a 263-156 vote.
“With the first piece of legislation signed into law during President Trump’s second term in office, we are safeguarding our communities from violent crime at the hands of illegal immigrants,” Walberg said. He added that the legislation takes a “vital step” in securing U.S. borders and ensuring public safety.
Tragic Murder of Laken Riley Sparks National Debate
The Laken Riley Act was drafted in response to the murder of 21-year-old Laken Riley, a college nursing student killed while jogging in Athens, Georgia, in February 2024. The convicted killer, Jose Ibarra, was an undocumented immigrant with a history of prior detentions and releases by law enforcement. His case fueled national outrage over lax immigration enforcement.
Proponents argue that the law will prevent future crimes by ensuring undocumented immigrants with criminal records are detained. Critics, however, contend that the bill disproportionately targets immigrants and could lead to unnecessary detentions.
Michigan Leaders Weigh in on Controversial Legislation
The law’s passage has sparked sharp reactions in Michigan. Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed concern over its potential impact, arguing that immigration policy should balance enforcement with humanitarian considerations.
“While public safety is a priority, we must ensure that policies do not foster discrimination or infringe on due process,” Whitmer said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Michigan’s Attorney General Dana Nessel voiced concerns about law enforcement’s ability to implement the policy effectively. “We need a comprehensive approach to public safety that doesn’t just rely on increased detentions,” she said.
Immigration Remains a Key Issue in 2025 Political Landscape
The passage of the Laken Riley Act underscores the ongoing national debate over immigration policy. President Donald Trump has signaled that immigration enforcement will be a focal point of his second term, emphasizing stricter border controls and increased ICE operations.
The issue is expected to play a central role in Michigan’s 2026 elections, with congressional and gubernatorial candidates likely to take clear stances on the legislation.
Find More Interesting Feature Stories From ThumbWind
- Michigan Feature Stories – Unveiling the diverse and vibrant people, captivating places, and remarkable events that come together to make the Great Lake State unique and cherished by both residents and visitors alike.
- Weird Political News – A sarcastic take on official news from around the U.S., exploring the absurdities that often arise in the political landscape while providing a humorous perspective on current events and highlighting the quirks of politicians and policies.
- Michigan News – News and events from Michigan’s Upper Thumb region worth knowing, including local stories, impactful interviews, and updates on community happenings that shape the culture and lifestyle of the area.
Your Turn – Like This, or Loath it – We Want To Hear From You
Please offer an insightful and thoughtful comment. We review each response. Follow us to have other feature stories fill up your email box, or check us out on ThumbWind Publications.
