The Texas Supreme Court on June 26, 2026, blocked Harris County's $10 million fund for legal defense of immigrants facing deportation, ruling that the program violates state law. The court's decision, in a 5-4 vote, sided with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who argued the fund improperly uses public money for private legal services.
The fund, approved by Harris County commissioners in 2025, aimed to provide legal representation to low-income immigrants in deportation proceedings. Supporters said it was necessary to ensure due process, as many immigrants cannot afford lawyers. Opponents, including Paxton, contended it incentivizes illegal immigration and violates a 2023 state law prohibiting local governments from funding such programs.
Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee expressed disappointment, stating the county would explore other options to assist immigrants. The ruling is a significant setback for immigrant advocacy groups in Texas, which has the largest undocumented population in the U.S.
