Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott has joined forces with Senator Ted Cruz and several colleagues to introduce the Stop Illegal Reentry Act, commonly referred to as Kate’s Law. This proposed legislation seeks to amend federal law by imposing a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for illegal aliens who have multiple convictions or a conviction for an aggravated felony. The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Chuck Grassley, James Lankford, Ted Budd, Pete Ricketts, and Jim Justice. In the House of Representatives, Representative Stephanie Bice has introduced companion legislation.

Senator Rick Scott emphasized the need for such measures, stating: “It is shocking to think that an illegal alien can repeatedly enter our country, be removed, and subsequently re-enter the country illegally without serious consequences.” He criticized current policies under President Joe Biden and highlighted concerns about public safety. Scott believes Kate’s Law will enable federal law enforcement to address repeated illegal border crossings effectively.

Senator Ted Cruz noted his long-standing support for this legislation: “I first introduced the Stop Illegal Reentry Act...a decade ago.” He mentioned that it honors Kate Steinle, who was killed by an illegal alien with a criminal record. Cruz called on Congress to act swiftly in passing this measure under President Trump's administration.

Senator Chuck Grassley also voiced his support: “America is a sovereign nation, and our borders shouldn’t be abused.” He argued that tougher penalties are necessary for those with criminal histories who repeatedly enter the U.S. illegally.

Representative Stephanie Bice highlighted past challenges in border enforcement: “The previous Administration's disastrous handling of border enforcement has made our country less safe...” She advocated for stringent penalties against violent felons re-entering after deportation as a means of upholding law and order.

Kate’s Law derives its name from Kate Steinle, a 32-year-old woman killed by an illegal alien with multiple felony convictions who had been deported five times. The proposed bill aims to increase criminal penalties for certain individuals illegally reentering the United States after removal or exclusion.