President Donald J. Trump Signed S.5 into Law

January 29, 2025

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Date of Action: January 29, 2025.
Signed Legislation: S. 5, known as the “Laken Riley Act.”
Key Provision: Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to take aliens into custody who have been charged in the U.S. with theft.
Additional Purpose: Addresses related measures as outlined in the Act.

The signing of the “Laken Riley Act” could lead to increased scrutiny and enforcement actions by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding individuals charged with theft. This may impact international students or staff at Vanderbilt University who are non-citizens and face legal issues.
There is a potential risk of heightened tensions and fear among the international community at Vanderbilt, which could affect the university’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive institution.
The act may necessitate additional resources and support systems for international students and staff to ensure they are informed about their rights and the legal implications of this law.
Vanderbilt University may need to review its policies and procedures related to student conduct and legal support to align with the new federal requirements.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) at Vanderbilt may need to enhance its advisory services to address concerns and provide guidance to international students and scholars affected by this law.
The Office of General Counsel might see an increased demand for legal advice and support related to immigration and criminal charges involving non-citizens.
Vanderbilt’s Public Safety Department may need to collaborate more closely with local and federal law enforcement to ensure compliance with the new legal requirements.
The Center for Student Wellbeing could play a crucial role in providing mental health support to students who may be affected by the implications of this law.

There may be financial implications related to the need for increased legal and advisory services for international students and staff, potentially requiring additional funding or reallocation of resources.
Vanderbilt University might need to invest in training and development for staff to effectively manage the implications of the “Laken Riley Act” and support affected individuals.
Potential changes in the international student population due to increased legal risks could impact tuition revenue and the diversity of the student body.
There could be opportunities for Vanderbilt to secure funding for research on the impacts of immigration laws on higher education and international communities.

Relevance Score: 3 (The act presents moderate risks involving compliance and potential impacts on the international community at Vanderbilt.)

Vanderbilt’s Office of Federal Relations should monitor the implementation of the “Laken Riley Act” to understand its implications on international students and faculty. This will be crucial in ensuring compliance with new regulations and maintaining the university’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive community.
The International Student and Scholar Services should provide guidance and support to international students and faculty who may be affected by this law. By offering resources and legal assistance, Vanderbilt can help mitigate any potential negative impacts on its international community.
Vanderbilt’s Legal Affairs Office should review the university’s policies and procedures to ensure they align with the new legal requirements. This proactive approach will help prevent any legal challenges and protect the university’s interests.

The enactment of the “Laken Riley Act” presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Law School to engage in research and analysis of immigration law and policy. By contributing to the academic discourse on this topic, the law school can enhance its reputation as a leader in legal education and policy analysis.
Vanderbilt can leverage its expertise in public policy and law to host forums and discussions on the implications of the “Laken Riley Act.” This can position the university as a thought leader in immigration policy and foster collaboration with policymakers and other academic institutions.

Relevance Score: 3 (Some adjustments are needed to processes or procedures to ensure compliance and support for the international community.)

Average Relevance Score: 2.6

N/A – There is no explicit timeline or deadline for compliance or implementation provided in the order.

Relevance Score: 1

Department of Homeland Security (DHS): The Laken Riley Act specifically directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to take into custody aliens charged with theft, thereby directly impacting the responsibilities and operational functions of DHS, particularly in immigration enforcement.

Relevance Score: 1 (Only one federal agency is directly impacted by this executive action.)

Secretary of Homeland Security – Responsible for taking into custody aliens charged in the United States with theft under the provisions of S.5, the “Laken Riley Act.”

Relevance Score: 5 (Impacts a Cabinet-level official responsible for significant enforcement operations.)