Peach Tree Times

Today in Washington D.C., Speaker of the House Jon Burns joined President Donald Trump and Congressman Mike Collins at the White House for the signing of the Laken Riley Act into law. The event also included members of Georgia’s Congressional delegation and the Georgia House of Representatives.

Speaker Burns expressed his support, stating, “I’m honored to be with President Trump, Congressman Mike Collins, members of our Congressional Delegation and members of the Georgia House to celebrate the signing of the Laken Riley Act.” He emphasized a commitment to addressing illegal immigration and supporting Trump's administration.

The Laken Riley Act, H.R. 29, passed by the United States House of Representatives on January 7, 2025, is named after a nursing student who was murdered by an illegal alien. The bill aims to provide local law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with more tools to combat crimes committed by illegal immigrants. It received bipartisan support in the House with a vote count of 264-159.

Congressman Collins remarked on the significance of this legislation: “Nearly one year ago, Laken Riley’s life was taken by a career criminal illegal alien. Today...we were finally able to bring justice to the Riley family and ensure that this can never happen again.” He praised President Trump for prioritizing this act as his first signed law.

The legislative efforts in Georgia included House Bill 1105 during their 2024 session. This bill requires collaboration between state law enforcement officials and federal immigration authorities concerning immigration status information for public safety purposes.

Speaker Burns highlighted Georgia's stance against illegal immigration: “The passage of HB 1105 reinforced our commitment here in Georgia to stand firmly against all forms of illegal immigration.” He noted its role in supporting current deportation initiatives under President Trump's leadership.