Texas Governor Signs Law Criminalizing Illegal Immigration and Authorizing Migrant Arrests

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signed a new law, SB 4, allowing state law enforcement to arrest individuals suspected of crossing the U.S.-Mexico border illegally, a power previously held by the U.S. government. The law will take effect in March and create a state crime for illegal entry or re-entry into Texas, with penalties ranging from 180 days in jail to 20 years in prison. Abbott also signed a bill allocating $1.5 billion for border wall construction and other operations. The move comes as record numbers of migrants have been apprehended at the border since President Joe Biden took office, leading to criticism from Republicans who blame Biden for rolling back restrictive policies implemented by former President Donald Trump. The new law is expected to face legal challenges.