Amidst a surge of migrants at the southern border and perceived federal inaction, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has taken assertive steps to fortify border security. The state has implemented land barriers, river barriers, and deployed the National Guard. Now, a significant bill awaits Abbott’s signature, granting Texas the authority to deport illegal immigrants.

The bill, passed by Texas lawmakers, empowers all state police officers to arrest suspected illegal migrants, even hundreds of miles from the border. While entering the country unlawfully is a misdemeanor, judges could order deportation for those arrested. However, the bill carries a key restriction: only migrants present in the country for less than two years are subject to deportation.

Critics, mainly Democrats, fear racial profiling and deterrence of crime reporting among illegal immigrants. Yet, sponsors assure that safeguards prevent widespread deportation efforts. Representative David Spiller clarifies it’s not about mass deportation, emphasizing the need for evidence before arrest. Director Steven McCraw echoes this, stating enforcement outside border counties is challenging without direct witnessing of illegal crossings.

Governor Abbott, a supporter of Operation Lone Star, has not signed the bill yet. However, he remains committed to border security, highlighting National Guard efforts to deter illegal crossings. He underscores Texas’s dedication to national protection amid perceived federal inaction.