AUSTIN, Texas - Protesters from across the state came to the Texas Capitol Monday opposing a tough new immigration law that seeks to ban sanctuary cities in the state. They crowded into the Capitol and disrupted House proceedings to the point state troopers had to clear the public gallery.

During debate on the House floor the group dropped a sign reading “See you in court.”

Opponents call Texas’ anti-sanctuary cities law a “show me your papers” measure. Immigrants from Arizona and elsewhere also showed up urging grassroots resistance against the law, which is similar to a 2010 Arizona law that lets police inquire about a person’s immigration status even during routine interactions such as traffic stops.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed the measure into law earlier this month. Supporters say it’s about protecting Texans and enforcing the rule of law.

Even after police peacefully cleared the House gallery, tensions among lawmakers brewed.

Several Democratic House members said Rep. Matt Rinaldi, R-Irving, told a group of Hispanic lawmakers that he had called ICE on the protesters.

Rinaldi and Democrats then got in each other’s faces and had to be separated.

---

Join the Discussion: