Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3698

Caption

Relating to the ineligibility of certain governmental entities that prohibit or discourage the enforcement of immigration laws to participate in and receive funds from the major events reimbursement program.

Impact

The bill introduces Chapter 364 to the Local Government Code, which outlines clear definitions and mandates concerning the interaction between local entities and federal immigration laws. Under this new chapter, local governments will be unable to adopt policies that obstruct compliant immigration law enforcement, effectively mandating that local enforcement agencies cooperate with federal immigration officers when requested. This action reflects a strong stance on immigration policy from the Texas legislature.

Summary

House Bill 3698 aims to regulate the participation of certain governmental entities in Texas by imposing restrictions related to immigration law enforcement. Specifically, the bill establishes that local entities which prohibit or discourage the enforcement of immigration laws will be ineligible to receive funds from the major events reimbursement program. This measure is a part of broader efforts within the state to insist on compliance with federal and state immigration regulations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB3698 include concerns from various localities regarding the stripping of their autonomy in governance. Critics argue that the bill undermines local decision-making and may force municipalities to act contrary to their established public safety or civil rights policies. Moreover, the bill could lead to heightened tensions within communities where local law enforcement may be viewed as agents of immigration enforcement, potentially hindering community relations and public trust.

Legal ramifications

Additionally, the bill provides a framework for legal action by the attorney general against local entities that violate its provisions. If a local entity is found to have intentionally discouraged immigration law enforcement, the attorney general is empowered to seek judicial remedies, which may include significant financial repercussions, thereby introducing a mechanism for state intervention in local governance on matters of immigration policy.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3960

Relating to contracts or agreements entered into by governmental entities involving the enforcement of immigration law or common or contract carriers.

TX SB81

Relating to certain laws that regulate aspects of illegal immigration in this state, including laws pertaining to the DNA records of certain persons subject to an immigration detainer request, the recognition of certain out-of-state driver's licenses, inviting certain federal agencies to participate on the homeland security council, the reporting of certain uncompensated hospital care costs, and certain requirements for participation in the E-verify program; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB138

Relating to the enforcement within this state of certain federal laws regarding immigration.

TX SB2325

Relating to the eligibility of certain events for funding under the Major Events Reimbursement Program.

TX HB2231

Relating to the eligibility of certain events for funding under the major events reimbursement program.

TX SB1118

Relating to the eligibility of certain events for funding under the major events reimbursement program.

TX HB3281

Relating to a prohibition on certain roadway projects and to the distribution of affordable housing funds to local governmental entities that violate that prohibition.

TX SB1293

Relating to a prohibition on certain roadway projects and to the distribution of affordable housing funds to local governmental entities that violate that prohibition.

TX SB4

Relating to prohibitions on the illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is an alien, the enforcement of those prohibitions and certain related orders, including immunity from liability and indemnification for enforcement actions, and authorizing or requiring under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB874

Relating to the eligibility of certain cricket events for funding under the major events reimbursement program.

Similar Bills

CA AB1615

Gender discrimination: civil actions.

AZ HB2768

Elections; public resources; conflict referral

TX HB328

Relating to state and federal laws regarding immigrants or immigration, including the enforcement of those laws by certain governmental entities and the use of consular identity documents for certain purposes.

AZ SB1447

Health boards; complaints; timelines

WV HB2989

Requiring local entities to enforce immigration laws

IA HSB708

A bill for an act relating to regents institutions and the enforcement of state, local, and municipal laws, and personal injury or illness of a peace officer employed by a regents institution.

IA SF438

A bill for an act relating to regents institutions and the enforcement of state, local, and municipal laws, and personal injury or illness of a peace officer employed by a regents institution.

CA SB873

Gender: discrimination: pricing.