AUSTIN, Texas – A Texas Senate panel on Friday approved a so-called sanctuary cities bill that would withhold state money from local jurisdictions that don't hand over immigrants already in custody for possible deportation.
The Senate's state affairs committee voted for the bill after more than 16 hours of often-emotional testimony marked by outbursts from spectators.
The measure moves to the full Senate for a vote expected next week.
Hundreds of people registered to testify on the bill Thursday before the panel, including San Antonio Police Chief William McManus, who opposes the bill.
McManus said he's concerned his department will not have enough resources to enforce the law, and it would take officers away from their primary mission to protect the community.
"My main concern is this bill will erode this trust, which will affect crime reporting and investigations, as many people would be less likely to speak to the police out of fear for deportation," he said.
Gov. Greg Abbott has pushed the legislation as he moves to crackdown on criminal suspects who are in the country illegally.
Opponents said local jurisdictions don't have the resources to handle what's a federal responsibility.Â