Georgia Governor Brian Kemp (R) signed multiple bills into law on Wednesday, including the Georgia Criminal Alien Track and Report Act. This act requires law enforcement agencies to identify and detain illegal aliens who commit crimes for deportation by federal immigration authorities.
The bill gained traction following the tragic death of nursing student Laken Riley, who was murdered on the University of Georgia campus by a non-U.S. citizen suspect, Jose Ibarra. Governor Kemp emphasized the importance of supporting legal immigration and cracking down on illegal immigrants who engage in criminal activities.
State Senator John Albers clarified that the bill focuses on public safety rather than immigration, targeting criminals who are discovered to be illegal aliens. Additionally, Kemp signed other bills addressing law enforcement certification requirements, bail for certain crimes, penalties for providing contraband to inmates, and vehicle lighting regulations.
One significant bill signed by Governor Kemp is the Ashley Wilson Act, which provides insurance coverage to assist first responders dealing with job-related PTSD. Gwinnett County Police Officer Ashley Wilson, who experienced the loss of her partner in the line of duty, advocated for this legislation.
Other bills signed by Kemp include measures to address false reports of shootings and bomb threats, crack down on drag racing, and support peace officers with their student loans. Overall, the governor’s actions reflect a commitment to public safety and supporting law enforcement in the state of Georgia.
