Texas lawmakers have passed Senate Bill 8, a measure that mandates most county sheriffs to collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) through 287(g) agreements. This bill, now awaiting Governor Greg Abbott’s signature, aims to expand the state’s role in immigration enforcement, traditionally a federal responsibility.
Under SB 8, sheriffs operating or contracting jail facilities must request and enter into 287(g) agreements with ICE. These agreements permit local law enforcement officers to perform certain immigration enforcement functions. The bill covers approximately 234 of Texas’s 254 counties. Initially, the bill focused solely on jail-based agreements, but the final version allows for broader participation, including field enforcement models that enable officers to question individuals about their immigration status during routine duties.
Supporters, including Governor Abbott and former President Donald Trump, argue that the bill enhances public safety by identifying and removing undocumented immigrants accused of crimes. However, critics express concerns about potential racial profiling, erosion of trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement, and the financial burden on counties. The bill does not provide funding for counties with populations over one million, leading to debates over unfunded mandates.
As of early 2025, 73 Texas law enforcement agencies have existing 287(g) agreements with ICE. The implementation of SB 8 could significantly increase this number, further integrating local law enforcement into federal immigration efforts.
This summary is based on reporting by Alejandro Serrano for The Texas Tribune.