Following a federal appeals court decision, a Texas law allowing state police to arrest individuals suspected of illegal entry can now take effect. The Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated Senate Bill 4, ruling that the plaintiffs lacked the legal standing to sue. Texas lawmakers passed SB 4 in response to what they described as an “invasion” due to increased border crossings. Historically, immigration enforcement has been a federal responsibility. The Texas legislation challenges this, drawing legal challenges from immigrant and civil rights organizations. In a 10-7 decision, the appeals court determined that the plaintiffs could not proceed with their lawsuit. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton celebrated the ruling. SB 4 establishes a state misdemeanor for illegal border crossing, allowing arrests and mandates state judges to order those arrested to leave for Mexico. The Biden administration challenged the law, though the Trump administration later withdrew from the lawsuit. Texas officials have defended the law, asserting the state’s right to self-defense. The appeals court avoided the “invasion” argument. Judge James Ho argued that Texas has a right to defend itself. Nicolas Palazzo criticized the court for not ruling on the merits. He stated that it left the road open for SB 4 to continue its actions.