Appeals Court Blocks Controversial Texas Immigration Law From Enforcement

In a victory for immigration advocates, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on Tuesday to maintain an injunction blocking enforcement of the contentious Texas immigration law SB 4. Chief Judge Priscilla Richman, joined by Circuit Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez, found it likely that key provisions of the law violate the U.S. Constitution by intruding on the federal government’s authority over immigration policy.

SB 4, signed into law by Texas Governor Greg Abbott in December. Would have empowered state authorities to make immigration arrests and detainers. And allow judges to order the deportation of undocumented immigrants. U.S. District Judge David Alan Ezra had originally blocked the law in late February. Arguing that permitting each state to set its own immigration policies could undermine national uniformity.

A Lengthy Legal Battle Ahead

The appeals court’s decision ensures the Texas immigration law will remain unenforceable while its legality is debated in further proceedings. Circuit arguments over whether to permanently strike down SB 4 are schedule for April 3rd. Whichever side loses could also appeal to the Supreme Court, signaling a protracted legal battle ahead. In his dissent, Circuit Judge Andrew Oldham defended Texas’ attempt to address what he views as gaps in federal immigration enforcement.

Opponents of SB 4, including the Biden administration and immigrant advocacy groups, have argued. That immigration law is the exclusive domain of the federal government. By carving out a state-level role, they say, Texas is intruding on federal supremacy. Supporters counter that the lack of comprehensive immigration reform has left room for state intervention. The appeals panel majority found those claims unlikely to withstand constitutional scrutiny.