WASHINGTON – On Thursday, most Senate Democrats partnered with Republicans to advance the Laken Riley Act. This proposed legislation aims to mandate the federal government to detain undocumented immigrants suspected of committing crimes, even if they haven’t been formally charged.

A total of 32 Democrats supported the legislation alongside all 51 Republicans voting in favor and one independent. The bill is named after Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student from Georgia, who tragically lost her life due to an incident involving an undocumented Venezuelan immigrant with prior shoplifting arrests.

Opposing the bill, eight Democrats and one independent, including Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and Andy Kim (D-N.J.), voted against the advancement. The final vote was 84-9 in favor.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) emphasized the importance of this issue, calling for a discussion and amendments to be made. He noted, “This is not a vote on the bill itself.”

The bill was also passed by the House on Tuesday, with 48 Democrats supporting the Republican majority. It seeks to require Immigration and Customs Enforcement to detain and deport undocumented immigrants implicated in crimes such as theft, burglary, shoplifting, and larceny, among other stipulations.

Several Senate Democrats who voted against moving the bill forward expressed their belief that it represents an overreach in immigration reform.

Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) stated, “There’s definitely support for immigration policies focused on border security and maintaining order in our communities. However, this bill lacks careful consideration. We could collaborate on a bipartisan solution, but what we have is merely a message turned into legislative action.”

Senator Hirono reiterated this sentiment, advocating for comprehensive immigration reform that would provide undocumented immigrants with pathways to citizenship.

In contrast, Senate Democrats who voted to advance the bill view it as an opportunity to challenge certain aspects and propose amendments before the final vote.

“This is a vital discussion,” said Senator Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.). “It is a serious issue that warrants serious attention. My procedural move to advance this legislation was fueled by the hope of fostering meaningful dialogue.”

Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) expressed his desire for an amendment to include a requirement for a criminal conviction and to protect children from deportation if detained for shoplifting incidents.

Reactions to the bill have been mixed. Supporters argue it enhances community safety, while critics fear it could infringe on civil liberties.

The American Civil Liberties Union urged Congress in a letter, stating that the legislation could “increase the stigmatization of non-citizens, including long-term residents.”

“While the death of Laken Riley is an unthinkable tragedy, this bill will not provide safety to our communities,” they emphasized.

Although Thursday’s vote suggests support for the contentious bill, its future is still uncertain, and Senate Democrats are likely to propose various immigration reforms.

Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.), a co-sponsor of the act, acknowledged criticism, stating he never claimed it was perfect.

“However, I believe it is a necessary and appropriate measure,” he asserted.

Reuters contributed to the reporting of this story.