Over 600 Local Agencies Now Partner with ICE
Texas Rises in ICE Partnerships as over 100 local agencies join the 287(g) program, trailing only Florida’s 292. With 629 total agreements nationwide as of early June, state and local support for federal immigration enforcement continues to grow—and Texas is poised to expand even further.
Texas Trails Only Florida in ICE Support
Texas accounts for 14% of all ICE partnerships nationwide. While it holds second place behind Florida’s 43%, new legislation could further expand Texas’ participation. Senate Bill 8, recently passed by the Texas Legislature, would require most counties in the state to formalize cooperation with ICE. The bill, now awaiting Governor Greg Abbott’s signature, would apply to 234 out of 254 counties in Texas.
If passed, Senate Bill 8 would require sheriffs managing jails—even through contracts—to join ICE’s 287(g) program. As a result, local officers could carry out limited immigration duties under ICE supervision.
Understanding the 287(g) Program and Its Models
The 287(g) program, in turn, authorizes local law enforcement agencies to assist ICE in identifying and processing undocumented immigrants. As a result, this federal initiative expands immigration enforcement beyond ICE by granting limited authority to deputized local officers.
There are three different types of 287(g) agreements:
1. Jail Enforcement Model
This model allows local officers to identify and process removable aliens currently held in jail with active or pending criminal charges.
2. Task Force Model
In this model, local officers are granted limited immigration authority during routine duties—such as traffic stops or DUI checkpoints. These officers coordinate closely with ICE supervisors to determine further action.
3. Warrant Service Officer (WSO) Program
Under this program, ICE trains and certifies officers to serve and execute administrative warrants on individuals currently in local custody.
Participating officers receive specialized training in immigration law, cultural awareness, and avoiding racial profiling to ensure professional conduct while expanding enforcement reach.
States That Restrict ICE Collaboration
While Texas and Florida have ramped up their cooperation with ICE, not all states share the same approach. Six states have passed laws prohibiting local or state agencies from partnering with ICE to enforce federal immigration laws. These include:
- California
- Connecticut
- Illinois
- New Jersey
- Oregon
- Washington
These states prioritize “sanctuary” policies, arguing that local law enforcement should prioritize community safety over enforcing federal immigration laws.
Political and Legal Implications
The number of 287(g) agreements reflects a broader national debate over immigration policy and federal versus state authority. Supporters argue these agreements improve community safety by targeting individuals with criminal records who are also undocumented. Critics, however, caution that such programs may lead to racial profiling, reduce trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement, and divert resources from traditional policing roles.
Texas Rises in ICE Partnerships as the state increasingly places itself at the forefront of the national immigration debate. Now, with Senate Bill 8 awaiting final approval, the outcome could significantly shape how Texas—and potentially other states—move forward with federal and local immigration enforcement efforts.