The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is taking legal action against the state of Texas over its use of floating barriers in the Rio Grande to prevent migrants from crossing into the state from Mexico. The DOJ is seeking an injunction to halt the construction of additional barriers and requesting that existing barriers be removed at the state’s expense.

The lawsuit, filed in the US District Court, accuses Texas and Governor Greg Abbott of violating the Rivers and Harbors Appropriation Act by constructing structures in US waters without permission from the United States Army Corps of Engineers. The DOJ contends that the floating barriers obstruct the navigable capacity of US waters and pose threats to navigation, public safety, and humanitarian concerns.

Governor Abbott has shown defiance, refusing to order the removal of the barriers in response to the DOJ’s request. The legal action is based on a clause in federal law that prohibits obstructing the navigable capacity of US waters without authorization from the Army Corps of Engineers.

The confrontation between Governor Abbott and the federal government comes amidst increased scrutiny of Texas’ treatment of migrants attempting to enter the US illegally. The measures implemented by Texas have disrupted US Border Patrol operations and raised concerns about the safety and well-being of migrants. Texas troops have been accused of pushing migrants back to Mexico, drawing criticism from the White House and Democratic lawmakers.

Governor Abbott’s office has received complaints from Department of Public Safety personnel at the border alleging mistreatment of migrants, including reports of pushing migrants into the Rio Grande and denying them water. Abbott’s team has denied any orders compromising the safety of those attempting to cross the border illegally.

As Texas faces multiple legal challenges and growing criticism, the debate over border policies and migrants’ rights remains at the forefront of national attention.