Texas Senate Bill SCR3

Texas 2021 - 87th 2nd 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

By calling for the federal government to label these drug cartels as terrorists, SCR3 seeks to facilitate a stronger state response to the ongoing drug-related violence and crime. This measure aims to empower Texas officials to take decisive action in addressing the influx of illegal narcotics and aiding local law enforcement in combating cartel-related activities. Advocates for the resolution believe that such a designation would enhance resource allocation and provide legal justifications for more robust defense strategies against cartels, which they argue currently threaten public safety and drain state resources.

Summary

SCR3 is a concurrent resolution urging the federal government to designate violent foreign drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. The bill argues that these cartels have created a dire security situation along Texas' border with Mexico, characterized by an invasion that brings narcotics, human trafficking, and severe violence into Texas communities. The resolution emphasizes the importance of federal recognition of this threat to enable state authorities, including the Texas Military Department, to use necessary force under constitutional provisions to protect Texas citizens from these criminal organizations.

Contention

The resolution does face contention regarding the implications of labeling drug cartels as terrorist organizations. Critics may argue that this designation could lead to escalated military involvement and the potential for excessive use of force in civilian areas. Furthermore, there are concerns about the long-term effects such a stance could have on Texas' relationships with neighboring communities and the overall approach to drug-related issues, which many believe require comprehensive strategies focused on prevention and rehabilitation rather than solely on militarization.