Texas Senate Bill SB89

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Relating to the execution or enforcement of federal laws that violate the Bill of Rights of the Texas Constitution.

Impact

The enactment of SB89 could lead to significant implications for the enforcement of federal laws in Texas. By allowing the Texas legislature to interpose itself against federal laws that contradict state constitutional rights, the bill creates a process by which state authorities can challenge and potentially refuse to implement such federal statutes. This could alter the landscape of law enforcement in Texas, particularly in areas where federal regulations conflict with state policies and rights.

Summary

SB89 is a legislation focused on the relationship between the state of Texas and federal laws, particularly addressing those deemed in violation of the Texas Constitution's Bill of Rights. The bill stipulates that Texas has a policy of refusing to provide support for the enforcement of any federal laws that it finds to violate these rights. This introduces a framework by which the Texas legislature can officially categorize federal laws as unconstitutional based on a majority vote, thus asserting state sovereignty over federal mandates.

Contention

There is potential for contention surrounding this bill, especially regarding the definitions of violations of the Bill of Rights and the criteria used for legislative findings. Critics may argue that such a move undermines federal authority and disrupts the balance of power between state and federal governments. Proponents, however, may view it as a necessary safeguard against overreach by federal laws that they believe infringe on personal freedoms guaranteed by the Texas Constitution.