Judge Stops Texas Law That Would Let Officials Arrest Migrants

A federal judge in Austin blocked key parts of a Texas law that would let state officials arrest and deport people suspected of crossing the U. S. -Mexico border illegally. Judge David Ezra, appointed by former President Ronald Reagan, said the law is preempted by federal immigration rules and undermines the federal government’s control over immigration, naturalization and deportations. The injunction was requested by the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups that are suing on behalf of thousands who could be affected by the law. The Texas law, known as SB 4, would make it a state crime for someone to reenter the U. S. after deportation even if they have federal permission or a green card, and it would give local judges the power to issue deportation orders.Earlier this year a federal appeals court overturned an earlier injunction that had blocked the law during President Biden’s administration. The Trump administration had dropped a challenge to SB 4, and the appeals court said the immigrant‑rights groups lacked standing to sue. The new lawsuit was filed last week, targeting four specific provisions of the law that are set to take effect on Friday. Lawyers for the plaintiffs praised Judge Ezra’s decision, saying Texas cannot override U. S. constitutional authority and should stop pursuing the law. Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office, which is defending SB 4, has not yet responded to requests for comment.