Partisan battle over sanctuary cities coming to a head

AUSTIN – House Democrats this week are preparing to wage a battle they know they’ll lose but say they have no choice but to fight.

At issue is Senate Bill 4, the so-called sanctuary cities legislation that would require local law enforcement agencies to enforce federal immigration laws. The measure, scheduled for a debate and floor vote on Wednesday, has been designated an emergency by Gov. Greg Abbott and several top Republican legislative leaders.

Democrats and other bill opponents have called it counterproductive, warning that it will break down the trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities.

“We intend to fight this bill with everything we have,” said state Rep. Chris Turner of Arlington, who heads the House Democratic Caucus, which is outnumbered by a near 2-1 margin.

Read more: http://www.reporternews.com/story/news/local/texas/2017/04/24/partisan-battle-over-sanctuary-cities-coming-head/100864778/