HARRISBURG — Legislation introduced by Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) to ensure illegal migrants who violate Pennsylvania laws are held accountable has been voted out of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Senate Bill 471, modeled after last session’s Senate Bill 1127, would require an attorney for the Commonwealth to immediately notify U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during the course of a criminal proceeding involving an illegal migrant. The bill previously received strong bipartisan support, passing the Senate with a vote of 34-16.
“The tragic murder of Laken Hope Riley and the violent attacks on NYPD officers by individuals who should not have been in this country underscore the urgent need for action,” Laughlin said. “Pennsylvania must do its part to prevent these preventable crimes by ensuring those who break our laws are not released back onto our streets.”
The legislation addresses a growing concern regarding repeat offenders who enter or remain in the country illegally and commit crimes yet are not reported to federal authorities.
“This bill is about protecting law-abiding Pennsylvanians and ensuring that law enforcement has the tools necessary to keep our communities safe,” Laughlin added. “We must send a clear message that Pennsylvania will not harbor those who break our laws.”
The bill now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit www.senatorlaughlin.com or follow Senator Laughlin on Facebook and Twitter @senatorlaughlin.
CONTACT
Chris Carroll
Phone: 814-453-2515
Email: ccarroll@pasen.gov