Relating to a biennial report on the cost to the state of services provided to illegal aliens.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would amend existing regulations in Chapter 322 of the Government Code by introducing Section 322.021. The primary aspect of this change is the obligatory preparation and dissemination of a detailed report every two years to key state and federal figures including the governor and members of Congress. The intent is to bolster public understanding and accountability on state spending related to residents who are illegally present in the country, thereby highlighting potential fiscal impacts on state budgets.
Summary
House Bill 1703 aims to focus on the financial implications of services provided to illegal aliens by requiring a biennial report detailing the costs incurred by the state and its subdivisions. It mandates the board to prepare a comprehensive report, which includes all available data from relevant agencies regarding the expenditure of state funds on services provided to individuals categorized as unlawful residents in the United States. This bill places an emphasis on transparency regarding the economic burden posed by immigration status on public resources.
Contention
Arguments surrounding HB1703 are likely to revolve around the contentious subject of immigration and its economic implications. Proponents may argue that the bill is a necessary measure for ensuring that state resources are managed effectively and that Texans are aware of how much they are investing in services for illegal immigrants. Conversely, opponents may see this as a stigmatization of illegal immigrants and a diversion from the systemic issues within the immigration system, raising concerns about the possible misuse of data and the implications it could have for community relations and social services.
Notable_points
This bill not only calls for reporting on costs but also emphasizes the importance of public access to such information by requiring that the results be displayed on public websites maintained by the board and the comptroller. The inclusion of electronic distribution aims to ensure that the findings reach a broad audience, fostering a more informed public discourse on the topic of illegal immigration and state expenditures.
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 an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.
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 a cost-of-living adjustment applicable to certain benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas and a biennial study on providing additional cost-of-living adjustments based on the effects of increased inflation.