Travis County, TX Immigration Policy: Sanctuary Policy Preemption (2026)
Key Facts
- Statute
- TX SB 4 of 2017
- Detainer compliance
- Mandatory
- Civil penalty
- Up to 25,500 daily
- Removal
- Quo warranto action
Summary
Texas Senate Bill 4 (2017) prohibits sanctuary policies in Travis County, requires local jails to honor ICE detainers, and bans elected officials from limiting cooperation, with penalties including fines, removal from office, and felony charges for sheriffs.
Sec. 752.053. POLICIES AND ACTIONS REGARDING IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT. (a) A local entity or campus police department may not: (1) adopt, enforce, or endorse a policy under which the entity or department prohibits or materially limits the enforcement of immigration laws; (2) as demonstrated by pattern or practice, prohibit or materially limit the enforcement of immigration laws. (b) In compliance with Subsection (a), a local entity or campus police department may not prohibit a commissioned peace officer from inquiring into the immigration status of a person under a lawful detention or under arrest.
Full Breakdown
Texas SB 4, codified primarily in Government Code Chapter 752, makes it unlawful for cities, counties, and universities to adopt policies limiting immigration enforcement cooperation. Local entities must honor ICE Form I-247A detainer requests and let officers ask about immigration status. Travis County Sheriff Sally Hernandez initially limited detainers in 2017, prompting legal action; subsequent sheriffs comply with state law. Penalties include removal from office, civil fines up to $25,500 per day for jurisdictions, and Class A misdemeanor or felony liability for sheriffs who refuse cooperation. SB 4 (2024) added new state crimes for unauthorized entry.
Violations & Fines
Local officials adopting sanctuary policies face removal proceedings, civil penalties up to $25,500 daily, attorney fees, and possible criminal charges; sheriffs refusing detainers can face felony official misconduct prosecution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Travis County honor ICE detainers?
What did SB 4 (2024) add?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Travis County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Travis County to another location·View the Texas immigration policy overview
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