A federal appeals court has temporarily halted the implementation of Texas’ stringent immigration statute, SB4, shortly after the Supreme Court had permitted its enforcement while appeals are considered. This law, one of the most severe immigration regulations introduced by a state in recent U.S. history, authorizes the detention and legal action against undocumented migrants within Texas.
Mexico has explicitly stated its refusal to accept migrants expelled under this new law from Texas. The Biden administration has contested the constitutionality of SB4, contributing to the ongoing legal battles over its enactment.
The pause on SB4 underscores the contentious debate surrounding state versus federal jurisdiction in immigration enforcement, historically deemed a federal responsibility. Traditionally, illegal border crossings are treated as federal offenses, though typically adjudicated through the civil immigration court system.
SB4 introduces severe penalties for unauthorized entry into Texas, with sentences extending to 20 years in prison. During the brief period SB4 was in force, Mexico declined to receive any deportees under the law, reinforcing its stance against measures that enable state or local authorities to manage immigration controls and conduct deportations to Mexican soil.
The Mexican foreign ministry has condemned SB4 as “anti-immigrant,” predicting it would strain U.S.-Mexico relations and lead to increased discrimination and racial profiling against migrants. Echoing concerns raised by the U.S. Department of Justice, Mexico has committed to supporting President Biden’s administration in the legal battle against SB4.
