Texas House Bill HB139

Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Caption

Relating to the inclusion of plans in the governor's homeland security strategy for the protection of this state's international border through the enforcement of federal immigration laws.

Impact

The implications of HB139 could lead to significant changes in how immigration laws are enforced within the state. By mandating state-level action when federal enforcement is lacking, the bill allows Texas to develop and implement its own strategies and plans to address immigration issues, potentially increasing the involvement of state authorities in what has traditionally been a federal domain. This could also lead to enhanced coordination between state and local agencies in dealing with immigration-related matters.

Summary

House Bill 139 aims to enhance the state's homeland security strategy by including specific plans for the protection of Texas's international border through the enforcement of federal immigration laws. The bill ensures that if a federal agency, responsible for immigration enforcement, publicly discloses its inability to execute these laws, the state will take action to enforce them. This is particularly important in situations where failure to enforce federal immigration laws is deemed to jeopardize the security of Texas.

Contention

The bill may face contention due to its emphasis on state enforcement of federal immigration laws, which could draw criticism from those who view it as an overreach of state authority into federal responsibilities. Critics might argue that HB139 could create confusion and conflict between state and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as raise concerns about civil rights implications and the treatment of immigrants. It is likely that stakeholders on both sides of the immigration debate will weigh in on the provisions of the bill, particularly regarding the conditions under which the state would step in to enforce immigration laws.