Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) signed new legislation that allows officers to arrest migrants who have crossed the border illegally.
Once detained, the migrants are given two options: they can either accept the misdemeanor charges or accept the judge's ruling for them to leave the United States.
Prior to the bill's passing, several Texas Democrats spoke out against the bill. On Dec. 12, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) released a statement condemning reports that Gov. Abbott plans to sign SB 4 into law.
“We strongly urge Governor Greg Abbott to veto the anti-immigrant bill, SB 4, and to block additional policies that will exacerbate racial profiling in the Lone Star State. From Operation Lone Star to SB 4, Abbott has shown a total disregard for the rule of law and the well-being of his constituents,” reads the statement.
“SB 4 is an unconstitutional usurpation of federal authority over immigration enforcement that will undermine the rights of asylum-seekers and put innocent people at risk of harassment and targeting on the basis of their suspected immigration status.”
Though Democrats made up the majority of the bill's critics, Republican State Senator and army veteran Brian Birdwell also critiqued the bill.
“For the short-term messaging gain between our two chambers during this election season, we are setting a terrible precedent for the future by invalidating our obedience and faithfulness to our Constitution,” said State Sen. Birdwell.
Critics and legal experts have challenged the ruling for its potential to cause racial profiling. Furthermore, some have questioned if the bill oversteps state powers, as some argue deportations are to be administered by the federal government.
Despite legal obligations to accept Mexican citizens, the Mexican foreign relations department has stated they will not do so. It is worth noting that, under Texas law, non-Mexican citizens would also end up being deported to their ports of entry, as well, which is against Mexico's laws.
