Texas Social Services Funding Bill — SB 8

Sheriffs in Texas will soon have new ways to work with federal immigration agents and receive state funding to help cover those costs. Senate Bill 8 creates agreements between county sheriffs and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and sets up a grant program to pay for the work. The bill becomes law on January 1, 2026. County sheriffs can choose to enter into agreements with ICE to help enforce federal immigration law. This means deputies could assist with immigration-related arrests and detentions in their jails. Texas will provide grants to counties that sign these agreements. The money helps cover costs like extra jail space, staff time, and administrative work. Counties don't have to participate - each sheriff decides whether to join the program. The legislation passed both chambers of the Texas Legislature after several rounds of amendments and committee work. The House and Senate had to use a conference committee to work out differences between their versions. The final vote in the House was closer than in the Senate, where it passed unanimously out of committee. Counties interested in participating will need to work with the Texas Comptroller's office, which will manage the grant program. The Attorney General's office and the Commission on Jail Standards will also have roles in implementing the agreements. Sheriffs who want more information can contact their county attorneys or the Texas Sheriff's Association as the January start date approaches.