February 07th, 2025

Bynum explains her vote on Laken Riley Act

  Thank you for contacting me regarding immigration policy and the Laken Riley Act. I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts with me.
  I understand that immigration is a deeply important and often divisive issue. How our country develops policies that ensure a diverse and vibrant population requires a thoughtful approach. That is why I’m committed to focusing on bipartisan solutions, not political games. I believe we must reform our immigration system and ensure that it is fair, humane, and upholds our values as a nation of laws and as a nation of immigrants.
  I support comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the challenges we face to make sure that our immigration system is fast, fair, and final. We need to modernize our immigration system to make it more efficient and responsive, including by investing in advanced technologies to enhance border security, improving immigration court processes to reduce backlogs, and ensuring that those who wish to immigrate legally have access to clear pathways to do so.
​  Additionally, we must consider the root causes of migration, including the instability in certain regions, and work with our neighbors to address those issues.
  I believe it is possible to enforce our laws while also offering a fair and just process for people seeking asylum or a better life. I believe many of the policies that have recently been proposed and, in some cases, implemented under the Trump Administration fail to meet that goal. That’s why I’m committed to working across party lines to find common-sense solutions.
  I appreciate you sharing your thoughts regarding the Laken Riley Act, a bill that would expand the types of crimes for which Department of Homeland Security agents can detain undocumented immigrants, and I understand your opposition. Like you, I know the vast majority of immigrants, including those who are undocumented and those who came here legally, contribute to our country, economy, and communities and make them a better place to live. I also believe that we must ensure that those who broke the law by crossing the border illegally and then break the law again while living in the U.S. are held accountable. That’s why I supported this legislation when it was considered by the House of Representatives.
  The work does not end there, however. I will continue advocating for a bipartisan solution that protects and enriches our communities, honors our values of humanity and respect, and addresses the needs of those who come to the United States seeking refuge and opportunity.
  Thank you again for sharing your thoughts with me. I will keep your concerns in mind as Congress continues to address immigration reform. It is an honor to serve as your representative, and I encourage you to continue sharing your views with me at bynum.house.gov on issues that are important to you.
   Sincerely,
   — Janelle Bynum
    Member of Congress