The Laken Riley Act has taken a second major step toward passage as the Senate overwhelmingly voted to allow for debate on the measure.
The bill is named after the nursing student killed by a Venezuelan national on the University of Georgia campus. The bill would allow for the detention of illegal immigrants arrested on charges including burglary.
While Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer voted in favor of the measure, he said changes may be needed.
“Americans deserve us to debate the issue seriously including by considering amendments from the Democratic side,” Schumer said.
Opponents worry the act could keep some of those arrested from receiving due process.