AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today held a “Texas Backs The Blue” press conference in Houston, where he and other state and federal leaders reaffirmed their support for law enforcement and condemned efforts to defund the police in Texas. The Governor announced that the state is considering the possibility of taking over policing in parts of Austin—at no expense to the state—if the city does not change its approach. The Governor also announced that the state is considering consequences for jurisdictions that refuse to prosecute crimes that are illegal under state law.
“Part of our job as state leaders is to ensure the safety and security of our communities, and we are ready to step in if cities choose to undermine this core function by defunding the police,” said Governor Abbott. “We also cannot sit idly by while local officials try to override state laws with their own policy decisions. Our communities are made safer through the service and sacrifice of law enforcement, and we must continue to show our full support for the important job they do every day.”
The Governor also expressed his condolences for the family of Houston Police Sergeant Harold Preston who was shot and killed in the line of duty last week.
“We will never forget the service of Sgt. Harold Preston, nor the ultimate sacrifice he made, and our hearts are with his family and the entire Houston Police Department as they mourn this unspeakable loss,” said Governor Abbott. “This tragedy is a grave reminder of the risks our law enforcement officers take every single day so that we may be safe. The men and women who serve as law enforcement officers have our back every day and I want them to know that they have a Governor and a state who will always have their backs.”
Following the press conference, Governor Abbott joined attendees in signing the “Texas Backs The Blue” pledge. The Governor was joined for the press conference by Senator John Cornyn, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dennis Bonnen, and members of the Houston Police Officers Union.
Governor Abbott has announced several proposals for the upcoming session to support law enforcement and stop efforts to defund the police. On August 18th, the Governor announced a proposal that would freeze property tax revenues at the current level for any city that defunds law enforcement. On September 10th, the Governor announced another proposal that would eliminate annexation powers of cities that defund the police. Additionally, on September 24th, Governor Abbott unveiled a series of proposals aimed at protecting both peaceful protesters and law enforcement while cracking down on riot violence.
