The state of Texas has taken matters into its own hands to address the issue of mass illegal immigration, as apprehensions of migrants at the border continue to surge. Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently signed a new law, Senate Bill 4, giving law enforcement the power to arrest migrants who enter the state illegally. The goal of the bill is to “stop the tidal wave of illegal entry into Texas,” said Gov. Abbott during the signing ceremony.
Under the new law, once in custody, migrants have two options: agree to a judge’s ruling to leave the U.S. or face misdemeanor charges of illegal entry. Those who refuse to comply could be charged with more serious felony charges and be subject to further detention. This move has given Texas authorities “broader authority” to prosecute individuals who are guilty of unlawful border crossing, said Texas DPS Lt. Chris Olivarez in an interview with “Fox & Friends.”
Lt. Olivarez also revealed that Texas is taking the “fight to the federal government” by introducing this historic action. Mass illegal immigration is considered a form of criminal trespassing, and the new legislation holds individuals accountable for breaking the law. Lt. Olivarez said that the situation at the border has moved beyond chaos, and this is “deliberate inaction by the federal government to secure our border.”
More than 4,000 migrants were apprehended at the border on Monday, further emphasizing the urgent need for increased border security. With the Biden administration failing to address the issue, former Acting ICE Director Tom Homan criticized the government for not taking action to stop the flow of migrants. “They haven’t done a single thing,” Homan said in an interview with “Fox & Friends First.” “That’s why states like Texas are now taking action to protect their citizens.”
Texas’ decision has been praised by those who support stricter immigration policies. Proponents argue that it will give law enforcement the necessary tools to address the influx of migrants crossing the border illegally. However, critics argue that the new law is unnecessary and could lead to racial profiling and the violation of individuals’ rights.
The new law represents a significant development in the ongoing immigration crisis at the southern border of the United States. While it remains to be seen whether this move will have a lasting impact, it is clear that the issue of mass illegal immigration is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon.