Migrants Given Ultimatum
After being taken into custody, migrants in Texas must now choose between leaving the U.S. as ordered by a Texas judge or facing prosecution for illegal entry. Those who do not comply could face arrest under more serious felony charges. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has been vocal in his criticism of the Biden administration’s handling of the border crisis.
Sharp Criticism from Biden Administration
White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, condemned the new law during a press briefing, stating that it does not make communities safer and is in line with Republicans’ efforts to “demonize” and “dehumanize” immigrants. She cited previous actions by Governor Abbott, including leaving migrants stranded in harsh conditions and installing razor wire, as examples of such efforts.
Legal Challenges Expected
Governor Abbott’s law is expected to face legal challenges as immigration enforcement falls under federal jurisdiction. Similar attempts by states to regulate immigration in the past have been struck down. Jean-Pierre was asked about the possibility of the Biden administration taking legal action against Texas, to which she responded that the Department of Justice would make that decision.
In the meantime, it remains the responsibility of federal courts to determine how and when non-citizens should be removed for violating immigration policies.
It is yet to be seen how this controversial law will play out amidst an already strained situation at the border.
