Texas Legislature Passes Bill Allowing State to Deport Illegal Immigrants: Gov. Abbott to Sign
In a move that challenges the Biden administration’s immigration policies, the Texas Legislature has approved a bill that grants the state the legal authority to deport illegal immigrants. The bill, which is expected to be signed into law by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, is aimed at addressing the alarming number of illegal immigrants crossing the Southern border.
According to federal data, 188,778 illegal immigrants were arrested in October, a slight decrease from the 218,763 arrests in September. Concerned about the impact of this surge on their state, Texas lawmakers have taken matters into their own hands.
The legislation grants state and local authorities the power to arrest and detain illegal immigrants. Those apprehended will be given a choice: either remain in Texas within a prison for up to 20 years or accept deportation to Mexico. Under Texas law, illegal immigrants face a misdemeanor charge for being in the state, and if they refuse deportation, they will face a felony charge.
Supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary step to safeguard the interests of Texans and protect the state. Republican state Representative David Spiller called it a landmark bill that allows Texans to protect Texas. He added that it is a rational and humane approach to a problem exacerbated by the Biden administration’s failure to secure the border.
However, Mexico has expressed its opposition to the bill, describing it as an anti-immigrant law that will lead to family separation, racial discrimination, and profiling. The Mexican government emphasized its legitimate right to protect the rights of its nationals in the United States and establish its own immigration policies.
While the Texas Legislature’s approval of the bill marks a significant development, its implementation may face obstacles. The legislation challenges the precedent set by the Supreme Court ruling in Arizona v. U.S., which establishes the federal government’s sole authority to deport illegal immigrants.
It is important to note that the bill’s signing into law does not guarantee immediate enforcement. Nonetheless, it signals Texas’ determination to tackle the issue independently, amid ongoing concerns about border security.
The approval of this bill reflects the complex nature of immigration policies in the United States. As states take up their own approaches, it remains to be seen how the federal government will respond to the challenges posed by individual state actions.
