Already passed in the House, measures head to Gov. Abbott for his signature
(The Center Square) – The Texas House passed historic border bills previously passed by the Senate and in line with Gov. Greg Abbott’s call for the third special session.
After contentious debate in the House, HB 4 was passed about 4 a.m. Thursday. The bill for the first time in state history makes illegal entry into Texas a state crime and allows Texas law enforcement to implement arrest and removal procedures, including transporting illegal foreign nationals to a port of entry.
If the person who entered Texas illegally fails to comply, they face being arrested with a second-degree felony charge, which carries a prison sentence of 2-20 years.
Filed by Republican Rep. David Spiller, it’s the companion bill of SB 11, filed by Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury, which passed the Senate roughly two weeks ago.
According to the bill language, it prohibits “illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is…
Texas House approves new funding for border wall, makes illegal entry a state crime | Texas | thecentersquare.com