In a unanimous decision, the Los Angeles City Council has voted to proceed with legal action and launch a criminal investigation against Texas regarding its migrant busing program.
This announcement comes in response to the arrival of the eleventh busload of migrants in Los Angeles since June, which carried a total of 42 individuals. The council has requested an inquiry by the city attorney’s office to determine if Texas Governor Greg Abbott has committed any crimes through this program and assess the potential grounds for a lawsuit.
Under Abbott’s initiative, a significant number of migrants, totaling 435, have been transported to Los Angeles since June 14. The program has extended its reach to other Democratic-led cities across the nation, including New York City, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., prompting criticism from Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez. Soto-Martinez condemned the actions of Republican governors, accusing them of engaging in a competition of racism and failing to govern effectively.
He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the alleged criminal actions of Governor Abbott, demanding accountability for the disregard of these families’ lives.
Both Abbott and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have implemented similar measures to send migrants to other states. Abbott argues that Texas is overwhelmed by border crossers and insists that other states share the burden.
The program has particularly drawn the ire of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, as it has sent a considerable number of migrants to the city. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has also expressed outrage, emphasizing the lack of communication from Texas officials.
Bass highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the arrivals, as they often arrive without prior notice, leaving local authorities unaware of the number or condition of the individuals on the buses. She further noted that some migrants have lacked access to sufficient food and water during their journey.
