Senator Ted Cruz has reintroduced legislation aimed at increasing penalties for illegal immigrants who endanger Border Patrol agents while fleeing law enforcement. The bill, named the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act, honors the memory of Border Patrol Agent Raul Gonzalez, who tragically died in a vehicle crash during a pursuit of illegal immigrants in Texas in 2022.

Under the proposed legislation, failing to yield to a Border Patrol agent would become a felony offense, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to two years. If an agent is injured during a pursuit, the penalties escalate significantly, with a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of 20 years. In cases where an agent is killed, the offender could face a minimum of 10 years imprisonment, up to a life sentence. Each of these offenses could also result in a fine of up to $250,000.

The bill also mandates that the Department of Justice provide Congress with regular reports detailing the frequency of prosecutions against illegal aliens for endangering Border Patrol agents.

Senator Cruz emphasized the importance of this legislation in holding individuals accountable for endangering American lives. He believes it is crucial to protecting communities and preventing criminals from exploiting past weaknesses in the system.

The bill has been reintroduced in the House by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.). It reflects a growing sentiment in Washington, D.C. for stricter consequences for illegal immigration, especially with the Trump administration's increased focus on border security and immigration enforcement.

In addition to the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act, Senator Cruz has also reintroduced the "Justice for Jocelyn" Act. This act aims to ensure that all Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention beds are filled before releasing any illegal immigrants into the interior of the United States. It is named in honor of Jocelyn Nungaray, who was allegedly murdered by two illegal immigrants.