Austin has recently modified its regulations regarding interactions between local police and federal immigration authorities, a change that has sparked differing opinions among city officials about its implications. The revised policy, which came into effect about a month ago, alters the previous mandate requiring officers to contact a supervisor when encountering individuals they suspect may be undocumented before reaching out to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The new guidelines suggest that officers “should, when operationally feasible,” make such contacts.
This shift followed threats from Governor Greg Abbott to withhold millions in state funding from Austin, citing non-compliance with Senate Bill 4, which prohibits police departments from restricting officers’ interactions with ICE. Other cities in Texas, including Houston and Dallas, have similarly adjusted their policies under pressure from the state.
City Council Member Chito Vela supports the updated language, asserting that it grants officers necessary discretion. “Should is not shall, not must call, it’s not will call,” he explained, highlighting the need for officers to focus on local issues, such as violent and property crimes, particularly given the current shortfall of 300 officers in the department. “I do not see how it will be operationally feasible for our patrol officers to take time out of their patrol and communicate with ICE,” Vela added.
In contrast, fellow Council Member Mike Siegel expressed concern that the amendments would lead to increased ICE contacts, potentially resulting in more detentions and deportations within the community. He emphasized that this could detract from addressing pressing public safety issues, like responding to emergency calls.
Regarding residents’ concerns about calling 911, Michael Bullock, president of the Austin Police Association, reassured the community, stating that the department’s focus has historically been on immediate threats rather than administrative immigration issues. He noted that unless individuals have active warrants for violent felonies, officers prioritize urgent calls over potential immigration violations. “Administrative immigration things, if you’re the victim of a crime, is not what we are focused on,” Bullock affirmed.
Critics remain apprehensive, recalling a troubling incident from January when a Honduran woman who called 911 for help during a domestic disturbance was subsequently deported along with her U.S.-citizen daughter. This event ignited public outrage, leading to demands for stronger protections against ICE enforcement during emergency calls. During a heated public hearing in February, Police Chief Lisa Davis faced backlash while attempting to clarify the department’s legal obligations in Texas.
In response to community concerns, Austin City Council members are exploring additional safeguards to protect undocumented individuals. Last month, they passed a resolution establishing a working group tasked with developing regulations governing police interactions with ICE. This group will also investigate ways to ensure that people can contact authorities without fear of arrest for non-criminal issues, such as civil warrants for unpaid fees.
Daniela Silva from the advocacy organization Workers Defense Action Fund viewed the resolution as a positive initial step towards rebuilding trust within the community. “I think that this resolution is a really great first step in working to really rebuild that trust,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of reassuring residents that local institutions are committed to their protection. However, the working group currently lacks the authority to implement changes or dictate police procedures, and it has yet to hold its inaugural meeting.
