The Justice Department filed suit on Monday against the State of Texas over its installation of a floating barrier meant to stop people from swimming across the Rio Grande, arguing that the interlocking buoys placed in the river by the state violated federal law.
Greg Abbott of Texas, who heralded the installation of the 1,000-foot barrier this month, refused a request from the Justice Department to remove the buoys voluntarily, vowing instead to fight in court to keep them in place.
Mr. Abbott has blamed President Biden for the large numbers of migrants crossing the border illegally.
“If you truly care about human life, you must begin enforcing federal immigration laws,” Mr. Abbott wrote in a letter to President Biden on Monday.
State police officers have been shouting at migrants to turn back and, in some cases, refusing to provide water to people who request it.
Persons:
Greg Abbott of Texas, Abbott, Biden, ” Mr, “
Organizations:
Department, State of, Gov, Justice Department, Rio Grande . State
Locations:
State of Texas, Rio, Texas, Rio Grande .