The bill, H.B. No. 1554, seeks to amend Chapter 752 of the Government Code by adding a new subchapter that prohibits governmental entities from using public funds to provide legal services for individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States. Specifically, it states that unless required by the U.S. Constitution, governmental entities cannot provide public money for legal services related to immigration proceedings for these individuals, nor can they seek reimbursement from the state for such services.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "governmental entity" to include state-created boards, commissions, and political subdivisions. However, it does allow for exceptions, permitting governmental entities to provide attorneys to indigent defendants who are entitled to representation under the Code of Criminal Procedure. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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