January 9, 2025, Washington, D.C. – Senator Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania) voted to advance the Laken Riley Act (S.5), keeping his promise to put the safety and security of Pennsylvanians and all Americans first.
“I’m proud that my first vote in the United States Senate was to advance the Laken Riley Act,” Senator McCormick said. “It is my responsibility to fight for legislation that protects the lives of every single American. This commonsense bill gives the Department of Homeland Security the authority and strength they need to keep our communities safe.”
The Laken Riley Act (S.5), named for the nursing student murdered by an illegal immigrant in February 2024, requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to detain illegal aliens who have committed theft-related offenses. Additionally, the Laken Riley Act allows state governments to sue the federal government for injunctive relief over immigration-related decisions or failures that harm the state or its residents. This bill will ensure that tragedies—like what happened to Laken Riley—never occur on U.S. soil. It is expected to receive a vote on final passage soon.
Contact: Meghan Rodgers, meghan_rodgers@mccormick.senate.gov