Biden Administration Warns Of Legal Action Against Texas Over New Border Security Law

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has alerted Texas that it could face legal consequences if it enforces the recently enacted border security law aimed at illegal immigrants. The DOJ argues that the law is unconstitutional, clashes with federal statutes, and has the potential to disrupt federal operations. The department has issued a deadline for Texas to confirm its decision to cease enforcement by January 3.

Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 4 into law on December 18, providing state law enforcement with expanded powers to arrest migrants entering Texas unlawfully. However, the DOJ, citing the precedent set by Arizona v. United States, asserts that the U.S. Constitution grants exclusive authority to the federal government for immigration regulation and border control, contending that the Texas law encroaches on federal jurisdiction.

The DOJ’s letter underscores the Supreme Court’s affirmation that the removal process must be solely entrusted to the federal government, especially concerning foreign relations. The Biden administration emphasizes its commitment to securing the border and processing noncitizens in accordance with the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), asserting that the Texas law contradicts the INA.

Governor Abbott, critical of the Biden administration’s approach to illegal immigration, accused it of inaction during the bill-signing ceremony, stating, “Biden is destroying America. Texas is trying to save it.” The law, slated to take effect on March 5, 2024, faces legal challenges, including a lawsuit from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), and concerns from the Mexican government.

In response to the DOJ’s letter, Governor Abbott took to social media, accusing the Biden administration of hindering Texas from enforcing laws against illegal immigration. Texas has implemented various measures, such as a floating barrier in the Rio Grande, to address the increasing number of illegal immigrants crossing the southern border.

Since March 2021, Operation Lone Star, a collaboration between Texas law enforcement and the National Guard, has led to over 489,500 apprehensions of illegal immigrants and more than 37,500 criminal arrests. The Epoch Times reached out to Governor Abbott for comment, and the situation continues to unfold amidst legal and political tensions.