Requesting that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security consider all alternatives to the detention of immigrant and asylum-seeking families with children.
Impact
This resolution reflects growing concerns among legislators regarding the effectiveness and morality of detaining families during immigration proceedings. By requesting a review of potential alternatives, HCR95 could potentially alter the federal policies regarding family detention. If adopted, the resolution may influence considerations of more compassionate approaches that align with the interests of children's welfare, while still addressing national security and immigration control.
Summary
HCR95 is a House Concurrent Resolution initiated by Representative Anchia that addresses the issue of family detention for immigrant and asylum-seeking families in the United States. The resolution emphasizes Texas's significant role in border issues and urges the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to explore all alternatives to the detention of families with children. It critiques the current practices, highlighting the negative impacts on children and families subjected to the stress of detention in for-profit facilities, such as the T. Don Hutto Residential Facility.
Contention
One of the notable points of contention surrounding HCR95 is the ongoing debate about the balance between national security and humane treatment of immigrant families. While supporters argue for the necessity of humane alternatives to detention, critics who prioritize strict immigration enforcement may view the resolution as undermining border security. Furthermore, the economic implications, including the cost savings associated with supervised release programs versus detention costs, are crucial to the discourse and may divide stakeholders based on differing views on immigration policy.
Urging President Joseph R. Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to take immediate action to provide Special Humanitarian Parole for Cameroonian refugees.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.
Relating to homeland security, including the creation of the Texas Homeland Security Division in the Department of Public Safety, the operations of the Homeland Security Council, the creation of a homeland security fusion center, and the duties of state agencies and local governments in preparing for, reporting, and responding to cybersecurity breaches; providing administrative penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Homeland Security Division, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.
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.