Texas 2023 - 88th 1st C.S.

Texas Senate Bill SCR1

Caption

Declaring an invasion of the State of Texas by transnational cartel terrorists; urging the Governor to accelerate construction of a wall along the southern border; urging the U.S. Congress to deploy military forces.

Impact

The resolution could have substantial implications for state laws, particularly regarding border security and law enforcement measures against organized crime. By formally declaring an invasion, SCR1 potentially empowers state leaders to take more aggressive actions under existing state laws, including mobilization of Texas National Guard troops. This could lead to increased funding for border initiatives, enhanced law enforcement cooperation, and possibly expedited construction of physical barriers along the southern border.

Summary

SCR1, introduced in the Texas Legislature, declares an invasion by transnational cartel terrorists and urges action from both the state and federal government. The resolution highlights the perceived threat posed by these cartels, citing a significant increase in violence and drug trafficking in Texas, and the inadequacy of current measures to protect the state’s residents. The resolution calls for the acceleration of wall construction along the southern border and requests military intervention from the U.S. Congress to combat these threats, reflecting a staunch stance on border security.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR1 appears to be heavily polarized. Proponents, primarily among conservative lawmakers, view it as necessary action to safeguard Texas against the threats posed by transnational crime. They argue that strong measures are essential to protecting public safety and restoring order in communities affected by cartel violence. In contrast, opponents caution against declaring an invasion, arguing that it may exacerbate tensions and lead to further militarization of local communities while not sufficiently addressing the root causes of crime and immigration.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the inclusion of military intervention as part of the proposed actions. Many critics express concern that involving military forces in domestic law enforcement could violate civil liberties and endanger public safety. Additionally, there is tension around the implications of such a declaration on Texas’s relationship with the federal government, as it asserts a more independent state response to what is framed as a national security issue. The debate encapsulates broader discussions on immigration policy and law enforcement strategies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SCR29

Declaring an invasion of the State of Texas by transnational cartel terrorists, urging the governor to accelerate the construction of a wall along the Southern Border, and urging Congress to deploy military forces to combat transnational cartels.

TX SCR23

Urging the federal government to declare foreign drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.

TX HCR78

Urging the federal government to declare foreign drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.

TX HCR79

Urging the federal government to declare foreign drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.

TX SR678

Requesting Congress to reimburse the State of Texas for funds used or will be used to meet federal obligations to secure the southern border.

TX HB4368

Relating to the protection of this state and its citizens from border invasion or imminent danger from border security breaches; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB7

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB20

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB1600

Relating to the creation of a criminal offense for illegal entry into this state from Mexico by a person who is not a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States.

TX HCR52

Urging Congress to pass House Resolution 61, the Leading Against White Supremacy Act of 2023.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.