Capital District Times

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik voiced her support for the Laken Riley Act, a piece of legislation that has passed with bipartisan backing. The act mandates Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain illegal immigrants charged with theft or burglary, following the unfortunate death of American college student Laken Riley at the hands of an illegal immigrant.

In a statement, Stefanik emphasized the impact of lax border policies on the life of Laken Riley, stating, “Due to Joe Biden’s reckless open border policies, Laken Riley will never be able to complete her nursing degree, become a front line healthcare worker in her community, or celebrate her incredible achievements and life with her loved ones. Laken Riley’s life was robbed because Democrats refused to end the invasion of illegal immigrants via our Northern and Southern Borders." Stefanik further highlighted the efforts of House Republicans in passing legislation aimed at preventing similar tragedies.

Stefanik's call to action was clear as she urged for enhanced border security measures, asserting, "It’s past time Joe Biden and Democrats acted to secure our borders and put Americans’ safety and prosperity first."

The full statement by Congresswoman Elise Stefanik can be found at the following link: [Stefanik Statement on the Passage of the Laken Riley Act](https://stefanik.house.gov/2024/3/stefanik-statement-on-the-passage-of-the-laken-riley-act)