Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has informed United States Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas about a new Texas law that provides Border Patrol agents with additional authority under specific circumstances. The law, known as Senate Bill 602, was passed by the 88th Texas Legislature and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott. It allows Border Patrol agents to enforce state felony offenses if the incident occurs at a port of entry or border patrol traffic checkpoint and is incidental to detainment under federal law. However, Border Patrol agents must first complete a specialized training program with the Texas Department of Public Safety before exercising this authority.
In a letter addressed to Secretary Mayorkas, Attorney General Paxton stated that Texas had to develop new solutions due to the federal government's failure to enforce immigration laws effectively. He emphasized that Senate Bill 602 reflects the desire of Texans for a stronger response to the high number of unvetted foreign aliens entering the state. Attorney General Paxton also expressed his commitment to using all lawful measures to tackle the surge in illegal immigration caused by federal negligence and neglect.
The letter serves as a formal notification to Secretary Mayorkas, fulfilling Attorney General Paxton's obligation to inform the commanding authority, as directed by the Texas Legislature. It highlights the need for Texas to take action in the absence of adequate federal enforcement.
The Biden Administration's failure to uphold the law and protect the integrity of the nation's borders has compelled Texas to step in and address the situation. Attorney General Paxton's letter serves as a reminder of the state's determination to combat illegal immigration and protect its citizens.
To read the full letter sent by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, click here.
To find out more, go to this link: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/attorney-general-ken-paxton-notifies-secretary-mayorkas-texas-law-granting-increased-authority