Immigration
We support immigration reform that is merciful, charitable, and compassionate to those here simply working for a better life, while also recognizing the legitimate responsibility of the government to maintain control of our nation’s borders.
Catholics derive special concern for immigrants from the call in Sacred Scripture and Tradition for us to welcome the stranger in search of security and livelihood that they cannot find in their home countries. The TCCB supports immigration reform that is merciful, charitable, and compassionate to those here simply working for a better life, while also recognizing the legitimate responsibility of the government to maintain control of our nation’s borders by:
- opposing efforts to reduce access by immigrants to IDs, birth certificates, drivers’ licenses, education, and healthcare;
- supporting care for unaccompanied minors, juvenile immigrants, and alternatives to family detention;
- supporting enforcement measures which are targeted, proportional, and humane; and
- supporting the reunification of immigrant families.
We publish brief summaries of the specific reforms in state law that we seek. Learn more below.
Testimony regarding immigration bills
Michael Barba The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops is against HB 2225. We oppose this bill because it effectively removes the state’s standards for childcare if the children are migrants. Background. The licensing requirements maintained by DFPS were established in order to ensure the quality of care for children housed in family residential centers (FRCs).[1]…
Read MoreThe House State Affairs Committee considered SB4 today, and Bishop Joe Vasquez testified against the bill. As passed by the Senate, two parts of the bill are particularly objectionable: (1) the bill does not prioritize criminal offenders for detention and deportation, and (2) the bill allows local law enforcement to stop individuals in public and…
Read MoreMichael Barba Associate Director of Public Policy, Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops As Bishop Joe Vasquez stated emphatically, we oppose Senate Bill 4. I add to his testimony several alternatives, recommended by the bishops, which would significantly improve our immigration system. It would serve the people of Texas to examine how our laws can advance…
Read MoreMy name is Bishop Joe Vásquez of the Diocese of Austin. I am testifying today on behalf of the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops. We are opposed to Senate Bill 4. The Catholic Church has a long history of involvement in the immigration issue. Our experience in working with immigrants throughout the years compels us…
Read MoreNational Migration Week, which has been observed for more than a quarter of a century, carries renewed importance this year. Cardinal Daniel DiNardo and Archbishop José H. Gomez, president and vice president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, offered these thoughts in their message: “Migration is, more than anything, an act of great hope.…
Read MoreAUSTIN — Catholic charitable and social services will continue to work with other nonprofits serving refugees in Texas, as the state government announced its intention to step away from its role. Speaking on behalf of two dozen Catholic organizations and his fellow Catholic bishops in the state, Bishop Michael F. Olson of Fort Worth said,…
Read MoreOn Monday, the Duval County Commissioners voted to begin contract negotiations with Serco, an Australian for-profit contractor, in order to submit to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) a proposal for a family detention facility in San Diego. Monday’s hearing did not follow the proper hearing disclosure procedures. Duval County Judge Ricardo Carrillo said the hearing…
Read MoreBy Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, Archdiocese of San Antonio The cry to end the imprisonment of refugee children and their young mothers in detention centers is written on the heart and soul of the Catholic Church and the Gospel. “Whatever you did for these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” I ask you, my sisters…
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PLACE HOLDER - BILL POSITIONS
Access to Services
We work to protect immigrants' access to I.D. cards, driver licenses, birth certificates, education, and healthcare.
Unaccompanied Minors
We support laws which provide appropriate care for unaccompanied children and offer alternatives to family detention.
Law Enforcement
Civil law should impose punishments proportional to an offense. Police should enforce laws humanely and target dangerous offenders.
Family Unity
We support laws and policies which seek to maintain or restore family unity outside of detention settings.
For resources related to Immigrants, Migrants, and Refugees and for ways to serve across Texas, visit our ministry page here.
Legislative Agenda
Our work to improve state law is guided by Catholic teaching and statewide ministry.
There are eight topics on our legislative agenda: