Relating to an annual study on the economic, environmental, and financial impact of illegal immigration in this state.
Impact
If enacted, SB825 will introduce a formal mechanism for reviewing the consequences of illegal immigration in Texas. This legislation will amend the Government Code, specifically adding a new subchapter for the annual immigration impact study. By emphasizing the need for empirical data, the bill aims to provide objective insights that could influence future legislative actions and resource allocation surrounding immigration issues. Collaborating with various agencies and organizations will ensure comprehensive data collection and analysis.
Summary
Senate Bill 825 mandates the Texas Office of the Governor to conduct an annual study focusing on the effects of illegal immigration on the state's economy, environment, and finances. The goal is to assess various impacts, aiding in developing informed policies related to immigration. This bill is an attempt to quantify the often-debated effects of immigration that have been central in political discussions, particularly in border states like Texas. A report summarizing the findings of these studies will be submitted every even-numbered year, offering a continual examination of these issues.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB825 appears to be mixed, with support emerging primarily from legislators who prioritize immigration enforcement and want to base policy on concrete data. Advocates argue that having systematic studies will help clarify the economic ramifications and guide more effective governance. However, there are also concerns from opponents who fear that the study's findings may be used to justify stricter immigration policies or reinforce negative narratives about immigrants, highlighting the importance of careful interpretation of the data.
Contention
Key points of contention regarding SB825 involve the methodologies and potential biases in the studies to be commissioned. Critics worry that the results could be skewed to reflect a particular political agenda, potentially impacting public perception and legislative outcomes concerning immigrant communities. Moreover, the bill does not specify how the findings will be used once published, raising questions about accountability and the commitment to using data responsibly in policy-making. The nature of the collaboration with various entities also prompts discussions about transparency and the objectivity of the research undertaken.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
Relating to certain laws that regulate aspects of illegal immigration in this state, including laws pertaining to the DNA records of certain persons subject to an immigration detainer request, the recognition of certain out-of-state driver's licenses, inviting certain federal agencies to participate on the homeland security council, the reporting of certain uncompensated hospital care costs, and certain requirements for participation in the E-verify program; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to establishing the Texas Carbon Emissions Mitigation and Severe Weather Adaptation Commission to study and address the impacts of carbon emissions and severe weather in this state.
Relating to a study evaluating this state's business advantages, economic climate, and workforce readiness, and a report on attracting offshore wind energy supply chain industries to this state.
Relating to prohibitions on the illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is an alien, the enforcement of those prohibitions, and authorizing under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate certain of those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to impeding illegal entry into Texas by providing more funding for the construction, operation, and maintenance of border barrier infrastructure.