Dark Mode
A Republican-supported immigration bill is advancing in Congress, aiming to give state attorneys generals (AGs) more power to challenge federal immigration policies and possibly change how enforcement works.
Named after Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student killed by an undocumented immigrant, the bill aims to detain noncitizens accused of theft-related crimes.
Immigration experts warn the bill could weaken federal authority and lead to legal questions about who has the power to make immigration laws.
Broader impacts of the bill include:
- Empowering state AGs to challenge federal immigration actions, such as detention, release, and visa decisions.
- Weakening of federal authority.
- Giving states the ability to sue when federal officials fail to screen individuals seeking to enter the U.S. or grant protections like parole.
- Blocking an entire visa category if a country refuses to accept the deportation of a foreign worker charged with a crime on a temporary visa.
- Creating tension with a 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling about deportation priorities, which could lead to court chaos.
Brad Bernstein, Managing Partner of Spar & Bernstein says, “The bill would eliminate a judge’s discretion in deciding whether to detain an immigrant over a petty theft they may or may not have done. This could lead to unfair treatment and undermine justice system.”
Do you need assistance?
About Law Offices of Spar & Bernstein P.C.
Founded in 1958, The Law Offices of Spar & Bernstein, P.C. specialize in immigration and personal injury.
The firm handles all phases of immigration, from permanent residence and green cards to training and investor visas, work visas, corporate immigration, family immigration, violations of immigration law, and deportation defense.
Law Offices of Spar & Bernstein, P.C. also offer legal representation in personal injury cases, including construction and motor vehicle accidents, wrongful death and medical malpractice, premise accidents, product liability, and more.
Contact information:
- Name: Victoria Minervino
- Email: [email protected]
- (646) 617-9450