Uniting for Border Safety
In response to the historic influx of illegal immigrants at the Texas-Mexico border and the failure of the Biden Administration to address the issue effectively, the Texas Legislature has taken a decisive step to protect our state.
Both the House and Senate has passed and Governor Abbott has signed SB 1403, which paves the way for an interstate compact for border security, allowing Texas and other participating states to work together in securing the southern border. These efforts aim to address the shortcomings of existing federal border policy and protect the safety and well-being of Texans.
Senate Bill 1403 sets the foundation for an interstate compact for border security. The compact will enable participating states to collaborate and share resources, intelligence, and assistance in creating and maintaining comprehensive border defense strategies. This includes the development and execution of a state-of-the-art surveillance technology system on state land and the construction of physical barriers where necessary.
By establishing a means for joint action among compacting states, Senate Bill 1403 enhances states’ capabilities to address, manage, and overcome the continuing security crisis at the southern border. Importantly, this compact maintains the existing balance of power between states and the federal government, eliminating the requirement for congressional approval.
Recognizing that Texas cannot tackle the border crisis alone, Governor Greg Abbott has been at the forefront of efforts to unite fellow governors to mitigate the dangers of illegal immigration and drug and human trafficking at our southern border. Twenty-four Republican governors have responded to the call, pledging their support to secure the U.S.-Mexico border and keep families safe.
The border protection measures under SB 1403 will become law effective September 1, 2023.
ART President Jamie McWright said in an interview, “the Texas legislature’s passage of Senate Bill 1403 demonstrates the state’s commitment to comprehensive border security solutions.These measures are crucial in combating illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and criminal activities at the Texas-Mexico border.” McWright went on to say. “Republicans passed a wide variety of strong border security bills throughout the 88th session, and ART looks forward to further border security investments from the first special legislative session.”
