Texas House Bill HB889

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the enforcement by certain governmental entities of state and federal laws governing immigration and to the duties of law enforcement agencies concerning certain arrested persons.

Impact

The implications of HB 889 are significant. It mandates that local law enforcement agencies formalize written policies aligning with the new immigration enforcement requirements. This includes creating processes for handling individuals' immigration status during arrests and detentions, thereby tightening local control over immigration enforcement. The bill may also lead to local entities facing financial repercussions; specifically, those that do not comply could be denied state grant funds, which could affect a broad range of counties and municipalities across Texas. This could shift local resources and priorities, compelling them to align more closely with state and federal enforcement priorities.

Summary

House Bill 889 aims to regulate the enforcement of state and federal immigration laws by local governmental entities in Texas. It explicitly prohibits local entities from adopting policies that discourage the enforcement of these laws, ensuring that law enforcement officials inquire into the immigration status of individuals they detain. This bill establishes a framework whereby local law enforcement agencies must adhere to federal immigration detainer requests and communicate immigration status to judges during the booking process, aiming to enhance cooperation between local and federal authorities in immigration enforcement.

Contention

The bill has been met with considerable debate. Supporters argue that it is necessary for the enforcement of immigration laws and that it helps keep communities safe by ensuring illegal immigrants are reported and managed correctly. Conversely, critics maintain that it could lead to racial profiling and a reduction in local autonomy, as communities may prefer to manage immigration issues in ways that reflect their unique social dynamics. They argue that the bill undermines the ability of local jurisdictions to enact policies tailored to their populations and creates a climate of fear, particularly among immigrant communities.