TX
Texas House Bill HB1554

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1554

Filed
12/10/24  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to a political subdivision's authority to use public money in the provision of legal services for individuals unlawfully present in the United States.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1554 would significantly impact how local and state governmental entities can allocate resources for legal assistance, effectively limiting their ability to aid individuals in immigration proceedings. It does, however, maintain provisions for public legal representation for indigent defendants under the current criminal justice system, indicating a nuanced approach to legal assistance that distinguishes between criminal and immigration issues.

Summary

House Bill 1554 aims to restrict political subdivisions' authority to utilize public funds for providing legal services to individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States. The proposed legislation outlines that, unless mandated by the U.S. Constitution, governmental entities are prohibited from spending public money to support legal representation in immigration-related proceedings for these individuals. This move is aligned with broader immigration enforcement efforts at the state level.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1554 appears to be divided. Supporters view the bill as a necessary measure to curb the use of taxpayer resources for individuals unlawfully present in the U.S., aligning with stricter immigration policies. Opponents, on the other hand, argue that this bill restricts legal access for vulnerable populations and undermines the justice system, as it limits representation in crucial legal matters that may affect an individual’s rights and status.

Contention

The most notable contention regarding HB 1554 revolves around its implications for local autonomy and the provision of legal services. Critics raise concerns that this bill could potentially violate due process rights for individuals in immigration proceedings by denying them access to legal representation, which may affect their ability to navigate complex legal systems. The debate encapsulates the ongoing tension between state control over immigration policies and the protection of civil rights.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 752. Immigration
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX SB1005

Identical Relating to a political subdivision's authority to use public money in the provision of legal services for individuals unlawfully present in the United States.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2241

Relating to the authority of a political subdivision to use public money to provide legal services for individuals unlawfully present in the United States.

TX HB134

Relating to the authority of a political subdivision to use public money to provide legal services for individuals unlawfully present in the United States.

TX HB1918

Relating to publication by the attorney general of a contingent fee contract for legal services for political subdivisions and related information.

TX SB1362

Relating to hiring and licensing certain individuals lawfully present in the United States as peace officers.

TX HB3002

Relating to the authority of certain political subdivisions to issue certificates of obligation.

TX HB13

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX HB127

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Homeland Security Division, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX HB4504

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, including conforming amendments.

TX HB272

Relating to the terminology used to refer to certain disabilities and to an individualized education team for purposes of determining a student's eligibility for special education services and providing those services in public schools.

TX HB7

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.