House Bill No. 5580 introduces new provisions to the Government Code regarding agreements between county sheriffs and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the enforcement of federal immigration law. It establishes a new Subchapter D, which mandates that sheriffs in counties with populations of 100,000 or more must request and enter into written agreements with ICE under Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Sheriffs in smaller counties may also enter into such agreements if offered. The bill outlines the requirements for these agreements, including the scope, duration, and necessary resources for implementation, and mandates annual requests for agreements if initially denied.

Additionally, the bill establishes a competitive grant program administered by the comptroller to support sheriffs in counties participating in these agreements. Eligible sheriffs can apply for grants to cover costs associated with the agreements, and the comptroller is tasked with ensuring fair distribution of funds. The bill also includes provisions for reporting and accountability, requiring sheriffs to submit annual reports on their activities related to the agreements and allowing the attorney general to enforce compliance. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, with a compliance deadline for sheriffs in larger counties by December 1, 2026.

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