Texas Governor Signs Law Allowing Arrest of Unauthorized Migrants

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signed a controversial law allowing state law enforcement to arrest migrants entering Texas from Mexico without legal authorization.

The move intensifies Abbott’s challenge to President Biden’s border policies and may lead to a legal showdown. The law, effective in March, criminalizes crossing into Texas from Mexico, except through legal ports of entry.

Migrants may face prosecution or be ordered to return to Mexico during the court process. Abbott claims the law is extreme and expects a significant drop in illegal border crossings.

Critics argue it violates the Constitution and could lead to racial profiling, while some sheriffs fear overwhelming local jails. The law’s impact may extend beyond Texas, affecting federal immigration policy negotiations. Abbott has been vocal about the border surge, deploying state police and National Guard troops under Operation Lone Star.

Opponents vow to challenge the law in court, arguing Texas lacks authority in immigration matters. Abbott also signed a $1.5 billion funding for a border barrier, emphasizing his commitment to border security amid criticism of the Biden administration’s handling of immigration.