The Texas SB4 program, a state bill originally passed to enhance public safety by allowing local and state law enforcement to engage in immigration enforcement, allowing county sheriff offices to house individuals in county jails who are suspected of residing illegally and charging them with a state crime of "illegal entry." It also permits judges to order deportations under certain circumstances and it has led to numerous issues in both Nueces and Aransas Counties. This program and bill had also strained community relations, false arrests and imprisonment, increased racial profiling and diverted critical resources away from core public safety responsibilities.

In Nueces and Aransas Counties, the implementation of the SB4 program comes with the risks of increased racial profiling, which particularly affects foreign nationals and black people living in the area. Families live in constant fear of false detention, deportation and separation, even those who don't have criminal records. These practices not only violate human rights but it can also disrupt relations and trust between local and state law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Moreover, the financial burden associated with maintaining the SB4 program is considerable. By reallocating these funds, our counties can invest in more community-building activities and public safety initiatives that do not rely on immigration enforcement. Data from other counties indicate that withdrawing from SB4 can lead to more effective policing by fostering community trust and encouraging cooperation with law enforcement, which is crucial for solving crimes and improving overall community safety.

We urge county officials in both Nueces and Aransas Counties to evaluate the impact of the SB4 program critically and consider its termination. By doing so, we can redirect valuable resources to more effectively serve the diverse community without compromising public safety. Let's work together for a solution that respects human rights, promotes security, and enhances the community's trust in law enforcement.

Please sign this petition to show your support for terminating the Texas SB4 program in Nueces and Aransas Counties. Your signature can make a difference in creating a safer, friendly and more inclusive community for everyone.