Colorado’s Michael Bennet pushes amendments to Congress’ immigration bill that would protect minors, Dreamers from detainment
Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet on Wednesday introduced amendments to the Republican-led immigration bill that has divided Democrats in Congress.
The Laken Riley Act would require federal immigration officials to detain undocumented immigrants who are suspected of or charged with petty crimes like theft, burglary and shoplifting.
The bill passed the Republican-controlled House of Representatives by a vote of 264-159, gaining the support of 48 Democrats. It is now being considered in the Senate, where Republicans also hold a majority.
One of Bennet’s amendments would shield children under 16 from detainment. It would also exclude immigrants who have protection status under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, as well as those eligible for the program, from detainment.
Other changes are aimed at reforming the visa program for immigrants working in agriculture, bolstering immigrant worker protections and easing the pathway to citizenship for those brought to the U.S. as children.
Bennet’s amendments would also remove the ability for state attorneys general to sue the federal government for alleged failures related to immigration enforcement and protect due process for detainees.

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