AUSTIN, Texas — Law enforcement officials from across the state gathered in Austin Wednesday to discuss the Sanctuary Cities Bill.

Senate Bill 4 would punish local governments if their county sheriff fails to honor requests from federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

This has already happened in Travis County when Gov. Greg Abbott took away funding from the sheriff's office after Sheriff Sally Hernandez said she wouldn't follow federal detainer requests.

RELATED | Travis Co. Sheriff Reviewing Policy After ICE Detainer Denial

Most law enforcement officials who met Wednesday were against the bill, saying it restricts the rights and jobs of local governments.

"What we don't want to do is become immigration agents. We don't want to go out there and ask individuals their immigration status with respect as to why they are in our city,” said Houston Police Assistant Chief Daniel Perales.

State officials say the bill would make it so every law enforcement agency is following the same procedures.

They also argue that if someone is in the country illegally, then they have no reason to fear the legislation as long as they haven't committed any crimes.

The Texas Senate approved the bill more than a week ago. It now heads to the house.