Austin (WBAP/KLIF News) – The Texas Senate has voted to punish cities and counties that refuse to work with federal immigration authorities. The “Sanctuary Cities” bill passed 20-10, along party lines.
“Government’s role is to protect good and punish evil,” says Senator Charles Perry (R-Lubbock), who wrote the bill. “Provide a basis for social stability.”
The bill was passed after a final discussion Wednesday. Democratic Senator Eddie Lucio said if Egypt had refused to accept Joseph when he fled with Jesus and Mary, “the greatest story ever told in the history of mankind would have never happened.”
“I know some in this chamber believe this bill contributes to making America great again,” he said. “I respectfully rebut and ask you to make God great again.”
“We are no less a Senator, and we are no less a Christian when we leave this floor today, no matter how we vote on this bill,” Perry said.
Senate Bill 4 now goes to the Texas House. Governor Abbott had labeled the issue a legislative emergency. After a preliminary vote Tuesday night, Abbott put out a statement saying sanctuary city policies put Texans at risk.
“Elected officials do not get to pick and choose which laws they will obey,” he wrote.
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