The bill, H.B. No. 1554, amends 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 agencies and political subdivisions. However, it allows for exceptions, stating that this prohibition does not prevent governmental entities from providing legal representation to indigent defendants who are entitled to such representation under the Code of Criminal Procedure. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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