S.B. No. 8 establishes a framework for agreements between certain county sheriffs and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to enforce federal immigration laws. The bill adds Chapter 753 to the Government Code, which includes definitions, requirements for sheriffs to enter into immigration law enforcement agreements, and the establishment of a grant program to support these agreements. Specifically, it mandates that sheriffs of counties operating jails must request and enter into these agreements, with provisions for annual follow-up requests if an agreement is not reached. The agreements must outline the scope, duration, and limitations of the enforcement authority, and sheriffs are required to allocate necessary resources for their implementation.

Additionally, the bill creates a grant program administered by the comptroller to assist sheriffs in covering costs associated with these agreements. Eligibility for grants is contingent upon the sheriff having entered into an immigration law enforcement agreement. The bill specifies grant amounts based on county population and outlines permissible uses for the funds. It also includes reporting requirements for the comptroller and accountability measures, allowing the attorney general to enforce compliance with the chapter. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, with a compliance deadline for sheriffs by December 1, 2026.

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