Georgia Legislature Approves Immigration Enforcement Bill

The bill, sparked by Laken Riley's murder, mandates local law enforcement to verify immigration status and collaborate with federal authorities.

Georgia's GOP-controlled legislature passed HB 1105, requiring local and state law officials to verify the immigration status of those arrested or detained.
The bill was propelled by the national debate on immigration following the murder of Laken Riley by an undocumented immigrant.
If signed by Gov. Brian Kemp, who supports stricter immigration policies, local agencies failing to comply could lose state funding.
Critics argue the bill could lead to racial profiling and does not make communities safer, with Democrats raising concerns over its implications.
Other states, along with the US House, have moved to enact stringent immigration policies, reflecting a national trend toward tougher enforcement.