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The Laken Riley Act: A Major Shift in U.S. Immigration Law
The U.S. Congress has passed a significant new law—the Laken Riley Act—that brings major changes to immigration policies, particularly concerning deportation and detention. This law, which modifies the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), has created stricter measures for immigrants convicted of certain crimes.
If you or someone you know is an immigrant facing legal issues, it is crucial to understand how this law may impact your immigration status. In this article, we will break down the Laken Riley Act, its background, the specific changes it introduces, and what immigrants should do next.
What Is the Laken Riley Act?
The Laken Riley Act was enacted following the tragic death of a young college student, Laken Riley, at the hands of a foreign national with a criminal record. In response to this incident, Congress took action by introducing and passing this law, which strengthens deportation policies for individuals with certain criminal convictions.
Unlike an executive order, which can be issued and revoked by a sitting president, this is a federal law passed by Congress, meaning it has long-term effects on U.S. immigration policy.
How Does the Laken Riley Act Change Immigration Law?
The Laken Riley Act introduces two major changes that affect deportability and detention for immigrants:
1. Expansion of Deportable & Inadmissible Offenses
Under previous immigration laws, individuals were considered deportable or inadmissible if they committed serious crimes, such as violent felonies. However, the Laken Riley Act broadens this category to include crimes that were previously considered minor offenses:
- Shoplifting (Retail Theft)
- Larceny (Petty Theft)
- Grand Theft
- Burglary (Breaking and Entering with Intent to Commit a Crime)
Now, even a single conviction for these offenses can make a person deportable or inadmissible, meaning they could be removed from the U.S. or denied entry.
2. Mandatory Detention for Convicted Immigrants
Another critical change is the introduction of Mandatory Detention for individuals convicted of these offenses. This means that if an immigrant is found guilty of any of the crimes listed above, they will automatically be detained by immigration authorities—without the option for immediate release on bond.
This new policy significantly increases the risk of prolonged detention and deportation for non-citizens, making it more urgent for immigrants to understand their rights and seek legal assistance.
Why This Law Is One of the Most Significant Immigration Changes in Recent Years
The Laken Riley Act marks one of the biggest immigration policy shifts in recent times. Here’s why:
- It expands the list of deportable crimes to include nonviolent offenses that were previously considered minor.
- It enforces stricter detention rules, leaving less room for legal defense and case-by-case discretion.
- It is a law passed by Congress, making it harder to reverse compared to executive actions.
Given these changes,
What Should You Do If You Are Affected?
If you or a loved one has been convicted of any of the offenses listed above, it is critical to take action now:
-
Consult an Immigration Attorney Immediately
- Do not wait until you are detained or placed in removal proceedings. Speak with an experienced immigration attorney to understand your legal options.
-
Know Your Rights
- If you are arrested or detained, remember that you have the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation.
-
Review Your Immigration Status
- If you are applying for a visa, green card, or citizenship, check whether your past record could impact your eligibility under the new law.
-
Stay Informed
- Immigration laws are constantly evolving. Stay updated on legal changes that could affect your status.
Need Legal Help? Contact Us Today
The Laken Riley Act is now law, and its effects will be felt immediately. If you are concerned about how this law might affect your immigration status, seek legal assistance as soon as possible.
📞 Contact my office for expert immigration legal advice.
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Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your future and your rights today.
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