Staff Reports
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has made significant moves to safeguard the Lone Star State from the continuous surge of unlawful immigration pouring in through the southern border. Governor Abbott’s recent action involves the endorsement of Senate Bill 4, granting state law enforcement the authority to detain individuals suspected of unauthorized entry into Texas from Mexico.
Texas Signs Law Allowing the Arrest of Illegal Border Migrants – https://t.co/QA3Iuy2pGD
— Paul D. Dangreau (@DangreauCWO4Ret) December 19, 2023
This robust legislation means serious repercussions for those entering Texas from a foreign nation through any means other than legitimate ports of entry, categorizing them as aliens under federal law. Offenders could face a Class B misdemeanor, leading to a potential six-month imprisonment and a substantial $2,000 fine. For repeat violations, penalties intensify to a state-jail felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in jail and a fine reaching $10,000.
However, SB4 isn’t just about deterring illegal entry; it extends its scope to encompass Class A misdemeanor charges, imposing a maximum one-year jail term and a fine of up to $4,000 for individuals attempting to enter the state after being denied U.S. admission or previously deported.
The bill goes further to tackle illegal reentry, classifying it as a third-degree felony, potentially resulting in a two to 10-year prison term and a fine of up to $10,000 under certain conditions. In cases where an individual was removed due to a felony conviction, the offense escalates to a second-degree felony, carrying a sentence of two to 20 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine.
Furthermore, SB4 allows for the issuance of orders compelling those arrested for these offenses to return to their country of origin. Parole or mandatory supervision is off the table for individuals serving sentences related to illegal reentry or failing to comply with return orders.
Governor Abbott's commitment to safeguarding Texas is evident in SB4, granting immunity to state and local government officials, employees, and contractors from liability while enforcing these laws. Additionally, the state and local governments are mandated to indemnify these individuals for damages linked to actions concerning federal law.
This bold move by Governor Abbott addresses the border crisis, which has reached unprecedented levels. With the federal government's ineffective response, Abbott has taken proactive measures, making it illegal for individuals to enter Texas from another country without proper authorization. He has also authorized every peace officer in the state to arrest those unlawfully entering the country.
Faced with overwhelming numbers and federal inaction, Governor Abbott’s resolute stance sends a clear message: Texas will not tolerate rampant illegal immigration. It’s a crucial step toward safeguarding the state and its inhabitants from the relentless influx of unauthorized immigrants.
Abbott’s Texas stands firmly for law, order, sovereignty, and state security. The enactment of SB4 is Governor Abbott’s unequivocal assertion of Texas’ sovereignty and commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring that illegal entry into Texas faces consequences.
