Urging the United States Congress to enact legislation to provide sufficient manpower, infrastructure, and technology to ensure the security and efficiency of land ports of entry on the southwestern border.
Impact
The bill outlines the negative economic implications of inadequate land port infrastructure and staffing, which can lead to significant delays in trade and travel. Projections indicate that if current conditions persist, wait times could escalate, leading to extensive job losses, reduced economic output, and a downturn in tax revenues. The resolution points to a cumulative potential economic loss of $86 billion over the next decade if upgrades are not made.
Summary
HCR106 urges the United States Congress to provide sufficient manpower, infrastructure, and technology for the improvement of land ports of entry on the southwestern border. The resolution highlights the critical need for modernization at these ports, which have been falling behind in funding and resources compared to the significant increases invested in border patrol agents and enforcement away from the ports. Notably, it emphasizes that many land ports are over 40 years old and require substantial upgrades estimated to cost $6 billion.
Conclusion
Overall, HCR106 serves as a formal appeal from Texas legislators to the federal government, stressing the importance of upgrading and reinforcing the infrastructure and technology at land ports of entry. By doing so, the resolution aims to enhance both national security and the economic viability of trade in the region, signaling a critical intersection of economic health and border security policy.
Contention
The resolution reflects broader concerns regarding the prioritization of funding along the border. While enforcement measures have received significant budget increases, the funding for land ports has not kept pace with the escalating demands of increased traffic and trade. The resolution also underscores requests made by state representatives to the federal government, calling attention to the inadequacy of previous funding arrangements that failed to address needs at larger Texas ports.
Relating to impeding illegal entry into Texas by providing more funding for the construction, operation, and maintenance of border barrier infrastructure.
Relating to a study on enhancing border security outcomes through public safety, technological, and transportation infrastructure improvements near Texas-Mexico border crossings.
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 measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.