Texas persists in implementing the immigration law allowing state officials to arrest and detain individuals suspected of illegally entering the country. After an indefinite pause in enforcing this law on March 19th, the Supreme Court cleared the path for Texas to begin enforcing the law that has stirred significant controversy nationwide. However, as reported by CNN, «Late on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, a federal appeals court once again suspended Texas’ immigration law, hours after the Supreme Court had cleared the way for the state to begin enforcing the measure.»
What is this law about?
«Senate Bill 4, signed into law by Republican Governor Greg Abbott in December, makes illegal entry into Texas a state offense and allows state judges to order the deportation of immigrants. The enforcement of immigration law, in general, is a function of the federal government.»
According to CNN, Justice Sotomayor wrote in her dissent that the aforementioned law «will disrupt delicate foreign relations, frustrate the protection of individuals fleeing persecution, hinder federal law enforcement efforts, undermine federal agencies’ ability to detect and monitor imminent security threats, and deter non-citizens from reporting abuses or trafficking.»
There are opposing opinions regarding this controversial law. On one hand, there are those who defend it, arguing that the law is necessary to deter migrants from crossing into the country illegally. On the other hand, there are those who reject it, with various arguments, including the assertion that implementing this initiative would create great chaos.
Quoting a CNN article, Maverick County Sheriff Tom Schmerber, whose county includes the busy immigrant crossing area of Eagle Pass, told CNN that his office will not accept immigrants arrested solely for illegal entry. «We cannot waste time looking for illegal immigrants in Texas,» he said, citing limited resources. «We will focus on safety.»
Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar told CNN he believes the law will do «more harm than good.» Salazar said his department’s officers, covering the San Antonio area, will have to complete an «extensive» report detailing the circumstances of an arrest for illegal entry into Texas.
In conclusion, as of the publication date of this article, the implementation of the law remains on hold as the court further examines the statute and Texas pushes for it to be enforced.
If you or anyone you know needs assistance with their immigration case, please call Pikes Peak Immigration to schedule a consultation.
