Gov. Greg Abbott warns Dallas could lose $32 million over police department's ICE policy
Gov. Greg Abbott has threatened to pull more than $30 million in public safety grants from Dallas unless the city reverses a Dallas Police Department policy he says can prevent cooperation with ICE.
In a letter obtained by CBS News Texas, the governor told Mayor Eric Johnson that a DPD policy allowing officers to decline cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement violates an agreement city leaders signed last year that could require the city to repay about $32 million in grant funding.
Abbott also warned that Dallas could lose its share of the $51.5 million in FIFA World Cup-related grants awarded to the Dallas-Fort Worth area if the policy remains in place.
"A city's failure to comply with its contract agreement with the state to assist in the enforcement of immigration laws makes the state less safe," Abbott's Press Secretary Andrew Mahaleris said in a statement. "It can have deadly consequences. Cities in Texas are expected to make the streets safer, not more deadly."
Abbott's office said Dallas must respond by April 23 and indicate whether the policy will be revised.
City says it follows all laws
Dallas officials said they have reviewed the governor's letter and stressed that the city continues to follow all state and federal requirements while prioritizing public safety.
"We remain committed to complying with all applicable state and federal laws while continuing to prioritize public safety for the residents of Dallas," Dallas police said in a statement on behalf of the city. "The City will respond in writing on or before April 23, 2026."
Dispute adds to ongoing tensions
The letter represents the latest point of tension between the governor's office and local officials over immigration enforcement practices. Abbott contends the policy weakens statewide coordination with federal authorities.
The governor's warning comes as Dallas continues to depend on state and federal grants to support police staffing, equipment and public safety programs.
Similar letters from the governor have also been sent to the cities of Houston and Austin.
CBS News Texas will provide updates as additional information becomes available.
