Congressman Tom Barrett Casts First Vote in Congress to Protect Michigan Families

Image January 7, 2025 Press Release Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) reaffirmed his commitment to public safety and protecting Michigan families by helping pass H.R. 29, the Laken Riley Act, with one of his first votes in the U.S. House of Representatives. [ VIDEO ] In a video statement following his vote, Barrett emphasized the importance of the legislation and his dedication to ensuring those who commit crimes while in the country illegally are held accountable and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). “I ran for Congress to protect Michigan families, and that’s exactly what the Laken Riley Act does,” said Barrett. “Public safety isn’t partisan. This bill ensures that individuals who break our laws face real consequences, and I proudly voted ‘yes’ because protecting Michigan families is my top priority. I’m honored to serve the people of Michigan in this critical role.” The Laken Riley Act is named in memory of Laken Riley, a young woman whose life was tragically cut short. Her story serves as a painful reminder of the need to enforce immigration laws and protect innocent lives from preventable crimes. If passed by the Senate and enacted into law, the Laken Riley Act would mandate ICE detention for individuals in the country illegally who are charged with, convicted of, arrested for, admit having committed, or admit to committing acts of theft or larceny. It would also require the Department of Homeland Security to issue a detainer and take them into custody “effectively and expeditiously.” Watch the full video statement Read the bill .