Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB166

Caption

Relating to the inquiry of immigration status of a person under a lawful detention by certain persons under the direction or control of a local governmental entity or campus police department.

Impact

With the introduction of SB166, local police departments will have the legal backing to inquire about immigration status as part of their detention procedures. This signifies a potential shift in how local law enforcement interacts with immigrant communities, possibly increasing federal oversight in local arrests. Proponents argue that the bill strengthens the legal framework for enforcing immigration laws at the local level and could lead to improved public safety as a result of closer cooperation between state and federal agencies.

Summary

SB166 is legislation proposed in Texas aimed at clarifying the authority of local governmental entities and campus police departments regarding the inquiry of a person's immigration status during lawful detentions or arrests. The bill amends existing statutes to prevent local policies from prohibiting officers from inquiring about and handling immigration information in accordance with federal laws. This encompasses the sharing and maintaining of immigration status information with federal agencies such as ICE and USCIS, thus enhancing cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

Contention

However, the bill also raises concerns regarding civil liberties and the potential for racial profiling. Critics argue that this legislation could lead to an increased fear among immigrant communities, discouraging individuals from seeking help from local law enforcement for fear of deportation or legal repercussions. The debate surrounding SB166 pits the interests of local enforcement and border security against the rights of individuals, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds. Additionally, there are concerns about local autonomy, with opponents asserting that the bill undermines the ability of local governments to address their unique community needs.

Companion Bills

TX HB1217

Same As Relating to the inquiry of immigration status of a person under a lawful detention by certain persons under the direction or control of a local governmental entity or campus police department.

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 HB40

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 authorizing under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate certain of those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB1624

Relating to guardianships and services for incapacitated persons and to the emergency detention of certain persons with mental illness.

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 HB4

Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.

TX HB1844