Texas Senate Passes Tougher Sanctuary Cities Bill

Senate Bill 4, the legislation which if passed would make it tougher for law enforcement officials to turn their jurisdiction into a "sanctuary city," is one step closer to becoming the law of the land in Texas.

The Texas State Senate approved the bill down party lines with Republicans in favor and Democrats against. The bill moves onto a House committee before being voted on there.

The legislation's momentum is largely in response to efforts by Travis County Sheriff Sally Hernandez (D) to not turn over non-violent and misdemeanor offenders to Federal ICE officers. This ran afoul of Governor Greg Abbott (R) who has spearheaded the legislation against sanctuary cities and has designated it a priority so he can sign it as quickly as possible when enacted.

Hernandez, who has only been in office since January 4, posted a video detailing her office's policy.