(San Francisco, CA, May 8, 2017)—Yesterday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed controversial SB4 into law, a show-me-your-papers bill requiring local law enforcement and government officials to enforce federal immigration laws and banning sanctuary cities throughout the state of Texas.
National Center for Lesbian Rights Executive Director Kate Kendell issued the following statement:
“There is a reason Texas law enforcement strongly opposed this legislation. This irrational law will decrease reporting and cooperation with law enforcement, making people in Texas less safe.
Governor Abbott and Texas lawmakers are jeopardizing the safety and welfare of Texans to enact a politically motivated attack on immigrants that does not reflect the views of most Texans.
Under the Trump administration, our legal helpline has been flooded with calls from LGBTQ immigrants, asylees, and their family members across the country who are living in fear. Now, more than ever, we need state and local leaders to protect and take a stand on behalf of their communities. By signing this bill into law yesterday, Texas put politics over its people. Texas had the opportunity to lead but cowered instead.”
