Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill into law on Sunday banning sanctuary city policies.
“Texas has now banned sanctuary cities in the Lone Star State,” Abbott said in a statement from his office posted on Facebook Live. “The reason why so many people come to America is because we are a nation of laws and Texas is doing its part to keep it that way.”
The bill, which passed the Texas legislature earlier in the week, will effectively allow law enforcement officers to ask about immigration status during any detention situation, including during traffic stops.
Police chiefs, sheriffs and other law enforcement leaders who violate the law can see their agencies fined up to $25,000 per day.
Law enforcement officials who violate the law can be removed from office and even face jail time under the statute.
“[The bill] ensures that law enforcement officers in Texas can and will cooperate with [U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement]. It also requires sheriffs to honor ICE detainer requests,” Abbott said.
Passage of the law is a major win for the Republican. A similar bill has been considered by the state legislature each year since 2011.
“Citizens expect law enforcement officers to enforce the law, and citizens deserve law breakers to face legal consequences,” said Abbott.
The bill will likely face legal challenges.