Texas Senate Bill SR10

Texas 2021 - 87th 1st C.S.

Caption

Urging the federal government to immediately declare violent foreign drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations and encouraging the Texas Military Department and all state resources to use authority under Article I, Section 10 of the U.S. Constitution to repel this violent foreign drug cartel-facilitated invasion in the least lethal manner possible consistent with bringing this facilitated invasion to a conclusion at the earliest possible moment.

Impact

If SR10 is enacted, it would invoke state authority under Article I, Section 10 of the U.S. Constitution to defend Texas against what is described as a 'foreign drug cartel-facilitated invasion.' This resolution not only highlights the legal basis for Texas to take action but also encourages the deployment of state resources including the Texas Military Department to address the threats effectively. The implications of this legislation could significantly alter the framework within which state law enforcement and military resources operate in addressing drug-related violence and trafficking activities.

Summary

Senate Resolution 10 (SR10) addresses the pressing issue of violent foreign drug cartels operating along the Texas-Mexico border. The resolution stresses the urgent need for the federal government to categorize these drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. This classification is crucial as it would allow for escalated federal actions and resources directed towards combating the escalating violence and illegal activities facilitated by these cartels. The resolution cites alarming statistics, such as the over 172,000 pounds of illegal narcotics seized in Texas and a dramatic increase in fentanyl seizures, underscoring the gravity of the threat to public safety and community welfare.

Contention

While supporters advocate for the resolution as a necessary step to protect Texas communities from the pervasive threat of drug violence, critics may argue that labeling cartels as terrorist organizations could lead to overly aggressive law enforcement measures. There are concerns that this approach might escalate tensions and violence rather than curtail them. Moreover, the resolution highlights the federal government's failure to adequately support state efforts, drawing attention to the burden placed on local law enforcement agencies that are already stretched thin dealing with cartel-related activities. As such, the resolution reflects a significant moment in Texas's ongoing debate over border security, state sovereignty, and the federal role in combating crime.