DeLauro Statement on Laken Riley Act

Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a statement after she voted no on the Laken Riley Act, legislation that would mandate deportation of any migrant person in the United States who has been arrested, even if they have not been charged with anything.

"I firmly believe that individuals who are in this country illegally and charged with serious or violent crimes and pose a threat to public safety should be detained and removed from our country. Had this legislation stopped there, I could have supported it. I believe we must do everything we can to support law enforcement and make our communities safer. However, the Laken Riley Act, instead of prioritizing removal of those who endanger our communities, casts a wide net that would subject people to deportation for minor offenses, such as jaywalking or traffic violations.

"The immigration system is in crisis and has broken down with the border out of control. I look forward to supporting legislation that fixes our immigration system, supports law enforcement, and helps make our communities safer."