H.R.7511 - Laken Riley Act

Background and Context:

Named after Laken Riley, who was murdered by an illegal immigrant, H.R.7511 aims to tighten immigration enforcement and detention, especially for those charged with crimes. It reflects Republican frustration with perceived lax policies under President Biden. The bill uniquely empowers states to sue the federal government for failing to enforce certain immigration laws.

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Supporters and Opposition:

The bill passed the Republican-controlled House on a largely party-line vote. Supporters argue it is necessary to protect public safety and hold the Biden administration accountable. Democrats and immigrant advocates are likely to strongly oppose the bill as criminalizing immigrants, infringing on prosecutorial discretion, and enabling anti-immigrant lawsuits by states.

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Legislative Process and Outlook:

Having passed the House, H.R.7511 faces an uphill battle in the Democratic-controlled Senate and would likely draw a veto threat from President Biden. However, Republicans may use the bill to force difficult votes and shape the immigration debate ahead of the 2024 elections. Elements could be incorporated into other legislation as policy riders.

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Impact and Implications:

If enacted, the bill would significantly expand immigration detention. The provisions empowering state lawsuits could flood courts with cases and set a precedent for challenging federal immigration authority. More broadly, it marks an escalation in the partisan battle over immigration that may further polarize the issue.

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H.R.7511 In the News:

Grassroots Gameplan

House Judiciary Committee

1. Jim Jordan (R-OH-04), Chair
2. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12), Ranking Member
3. Tom McClintock (R-CA-05), Immigration Subcommittee Chair
4. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Immigration Subcommittee Ranking Member
5. Matt Gaetz (R-FL-01)
6. Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16)

Senate Judiciary Committee

1. Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair
2. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Ranking Member
3. John Cornyn (R-TX)
4. Alex Padilla (D-CA)

Non-cosponsors

• Key Republican leaders (McCarthy, Scalise, Stefanik)
• Border state Republicans
• Moderate Republicans who support immigration reform
• Vulnerable Democrats in swing districts

Influential immigration groups

1. Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR)
2. Heritage Action for America
3. American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
4. America's Voice

Tips for constituent letters:

• Mention if you or family have been directly impacted by crimes committed by illegal immigrants
• Emphasize the importance of public safety and holding the administration accountable
• Argue that states and local communities bear costs and deserve a say in enforcement
• For opponents, highlight the bill's impact on immigrant communities and due process

The grassroots gameplan focuses on mobilizing supporters and opponents around this emotionally charged immigration enforcement bill. Advocates can target Judiciary Committee members, leadership, and swing district lawmakers in both chambers. Personal stories, public safety concerns, and federalism arguments may resonate with supporters, while critics can highlight the human and legal impact. With the bill unlikely to become law, the real battle is over shaping public perceptions on immigration ahead of the 2024 election.