The Senate has approved an amended version of the Laken Riley Act, sending it back to the House for final approval. The bill passed with bipartisan support in a 64-35 vote, exceeding the 60-vote threshold needed to overcome a filibuster. Twelve Democrats joined Republicans in supporting the measure.

Championed by Senator Katie Britt (R-AL) and Representative Mike Collins (R-GA), the act honors Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student tragically murdered by an illegal immigrant. Jose Ibarra, convicted on ten counts including felony murder, received a life sentence without parole for the crime.

This legislation mandates that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detain illegal immigrants convicted of theft, burglary, or shoplifting until deportation. It also empowers states to sue federal officials who fail to enforce immigration laws. A Republican amendment broadened the criteria for ICE detainment to include assaulting law enforcement officers. Furthermore, "Sarah's Law," introduced by Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), requires detainment of illegal immigrants accused of causing death or serious injury.

The House must now review and approve the Senate's amended version. This bill's passage comes as President Trump, sworn in earlier this week, prioritizes immigration law enforcement. Among his first executive actions is an order to end birthright citizenship for children of illegal immigrants, along with other measures addressing the border crisis.

Fox News Digital's Adam Shaw contributed to this report.