San Antonio, Texas, February 5, 2026
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Bexar County, arguing that the county’s funding for legal services to undocumented immigrants violates the Texas Constitution. The lawsuit could have significant implications for similar programs across Texas, as it questions the use of taxpayer funds for immigration services. Bexar County’s efforts, aimed at supporting vulnerable populations, are now under scrutiny, highlighting the conflict between state laws and local governance.
San Antonio, Texas
Texas AG Challenges Bexar County’s Immigration Legal Program
Legal action raises questions about taxpayer funding and immigration services
The ongoing debate surrounding immigration and the allocation of taxpayer funds has taken center stage in San Antonio as Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Bexar County. This legal action claims that the county’s use of public funds to provide legal assistance to undocumented immigrants facing deportation proceedings is unlawful. Underlining the tension between state law and local governance, this lawsuit could have wider implications for similar programs across Texas.
Amidst a landscape of entrepreneurial innovation and resilience, local governments often seek to support vulnerable populations, including undocumented individuals. However, the rise in legal challenges from state leaders like Paxton emphasizes the ongoing scrutiny of how taxpayer dollars are spent, suggesting a need for clear guidelines that balance community welfare with fiscal responsibility.
Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit focuses on Bexar County’s allocation of $566,181 to its Immigration Legal Services (ILS) fund, a program designed to provide legal representation for those in deportation proceedings. Reports indicate that the total funding for the ILS program could exceed $1 million. Attorney General Paxton asserts that such expenditures violate the Texas Constitution’s gift clause, which prevents the use of public funds for private purposes without clear public benefit. He argues that funding deportation defense services does not serve the public good and exceeds the county’s lawful authority.
Background on Bexar County’s Immigration Legal Services Program
Bexar County launched its Immigration Legal Services program in May 2024, initiating a budget of $1 million allocated to two nonprofit organizations—American Gateways and RAICES—for providing free legal services to undocumented individuals. In December 2025, the Bexar County Commissioners Court approved an additional $566,181 for the program. This initiative exemplifies local commitment to addressing legal challenges faced by these populations, with similar efforts also underway in cities like Austin and Dallas. However, Paxton has characterized these programs as politically motivated and has taken legal measures against other local governments in Texas over similar funding practices.
Previous Legal Actions by Attorney General Paxton
Prior to the current complaint against Bexar County, Attorney General Paxton had similarly challenged Harris County in November 2025 over its immigration legal services funding. In that case, his attempt to shut down the program was rejected by a district judge. This legal strategy reflects a broader initiative by Paxton to enforce state laws concerning the utilization of taxpayer funds, with previous lawsuits filed against San Antonio and Austin related to perceived violations of state law regarding public money.
Reactions and Implications
In light of the ongoing litigation, Bexar County officials have refrained from commenting, citing the pending lawsuit. However, the outcome of this case could significantly affect local government programs designed to assist undocumented individuals. A ruling in favor of Paxton could set a legal precedent that may have implications for similar initiatives throughout Texas, igniting further discussions about the role and boundaries of local governance in immigration matters and the financial stewardship of public funds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the lawsuit filed by Attorney General Ken Paxton against Bexar County about?
The lawsuit alleges that Bexar County unlawfully used taxpayer funds to provide legal assistance to undocumented immigrants facing deportation proceedings, violating the Texas Constitution’s gift clause.
How much money did Bexar County allocate to its Immigration Legal Services program?
Bexar County allocated $566,181 to its Immigration Legal Services fund, with reports indicating that the total funding could exceed $1 million.
What is the purpose of Bexar County’s Immigration Legal Services program?
The program aims to provide legal representation to individuals facing deportation proceedings, assisting them in obtaining legal counsel during their cases.
Has Attorney General Paxton taken similar legal actions against other Texas counties?
Yes, Paxton has previously filed similar lawsuits against Harris County and other Texas cities, challenging the use of taxpayer funds for purposes he argues violate state law.
What could be the implications of this lawsuit for other local government programs in Texas?
If the court rules in favor of Paxton, it may set a precedent for challenging similar programs in other counties and cities across Texas, potentially affecting how local governments allocate taxpayer funds for services to undocumented individuals.
Key Features of the Lawsuit
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Bexar County, Texas |
| Allegation | Unlawful use of taxpayer funds to provide legal assistance to undocumented immigrants |
| Amount Allocated | $566,181, with total funding potentially exceeding $1 million |
| Program Purpose | Provide legal representation to individuals facing deportation proceedings |
| Legal Basis | Violation of the Texas Constitution’s gift clause |
| Requested Relief | Temporary restraining order, injunctive relief, and declaratory judgment to halt unlawful expenditure of public funds |
| Similar Actions | Previous lawsuits against Harris County and other Texas cities over similar issues |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
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