New texas immigration law
You're referring to Senate Bill 4 (SB 4), also known as the "Terry's Law" or "Show Me Your Papers" law, which was signed into law by Texas Governor Greg Abbott in May 2017. The law aimed to crack down on illegal immigration and enhance border security.
Here's a summary of the key provisions:
- Immigration enforcement: Law enforcement agencies in Texas are required to honor federal immigration detainers and hold individuals in custody for up to 48 hours to allow federal authorities to take them into custody.
- SB 4's "Show Me Your Papers" provision: Police officers are allowed to ask individuals about their immigration status during a lawful detention or arrest, if they have a reasonable suspicion that the person is in the country illegally.
- Sanctuary cities ban: The law prohibits cities and counties from adopting policies that prohibit or restrict law enforcement agencies from inquiring about an individual's immigration status or from honoring federal immigration detainers.
- Penalties for non-compliance: Cities and counties that violate the sanctuary cities ban can face fines and penalties, including the loss of state funding.
The law was met with controversy and legal challenges, with many arguing that it would lead to racial profiling, increased fear and mistrust among immigrant communities, and a decrease in reporting of crimes.
In August 2017, a federal judge blocked the "Show Me Your Papers" provision, ruling that it was unconstitutional. The judge also blocked the sanctuary cities ban, citing concerns that it would lead to racial profiling and violate the Fourth Amendment's protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
In 2018, the Texas Supreme Court upheld the law's enforcement provisions, but the "Show Me Your Papers" provision remains blocked.
In summary, while the law aimed to enhance border security and immigration enforcement, its implementation has been met with controversy and legal challenges, and its effectiveness remains uncertain.