Sioux City Times

Yesterday, U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra introduced a new piece of legislation named Sarah’s Law in Washington, D.C. The law is dedicated to the memory of Sarah Root, a 21-year-old from Iowa who lost her life due to an incident involving an illegal immigrant driving under the influence.

The proposed legislation mandates that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detain any illegal immigrant responsible for harming or killing an American citizen. It also aims to ensure that these individuals are prosecuted fully under the law.

Rep. Feenstra commented on the motivation behind this initiative: “Almost nine years ago, 21-year-old Sarah Root was struck and killed by an illegal immigrant who was driving while drunk. Instead of answering for his crimes, the illegal immigrant posted bail, was released from jail, and fled our country never to be seen again. This egregious loophole in federal law must be closed so that victims like Sarah receive justice and criminals do the hard time they deserve.”

He further emphasized the purpose of Sarah’s Law: “Sarah’s Law ensures that any illegal immigrant who injures or kills an American citizen is swiftly detained and punished to the fullest extent of the law. In honor of Sarah, who was taken far too soon, we must restore law and order in our country to protect our families and communities.”

The full legislative text is available for public access.