SAPD Chief McManus addresses lawmakers on bill to ban 'sanctuary cities'

Texas Senate holds first hearing on bill Abbott declares an 'emergency' bill

AUSTIN, Texas – San Antonio police Chief William McManus on Thursday testified during the first hearing held by the Republican-controlled state Senate on a bill to ban so-called "sanctuary cities."

The bill would deny state grant money to jurisdictions in which police refuse federal requests to hand over immigrants who are already in custody for possible deportation.

McManus said the bill will hinder communication between law enforcement agencies and immigrants.

"Many, many, many people will be less likely to speak to the police out of fear of deportation," McManus told lawmakers. "As written, Senate Bill 4 would retract from local law enforcement's effectiveness."

Gov. Greg Abbott declared a crackdown on illegal immigration one of his "emergency" issues during his State of the State address Tuesday.

The meeting in the Senate chamber was disrupted several times by demonstrators singing songs or directing jeers at Abbott, who didn't attend.

Abbott has also called for the power to remove from office locally elected officials who resist compliance with the bill.

The Senate is expected to pass the bill as early as next week.