Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HCR61

Caption

Urging Congress to reimburse the State of Texas for bearing the financial burden of the federal government's responsibility to secure the Texas-Mexico international border.

Impact

If approved, HCR61 would underscore the financial implications of border security on Texas's state budget and further delineate the federal government's responsibilities regarding border control. The resolution calls attention to the necessity of federal support for states that are shouldering the burdens of enforcing national immigration policies. By highlighting the amounts expended by Texas, the resolution aims to encourage congressional action to aid states financially in dealing with border security, which has significant implications for future state budgets and resource allocation.

Summary

HCR61 is a House Concurrent Resolution urging Congress to reimburse the State of Texas for expenses incurred due to the federal government's responsibility to secure the Texas-Mexico international border. The resolution outlines the federal government's failure to fulfill its obligations, which has resulted in Texas bearing significant financial burdens for border security operations. Between 2012 and 2015, Texas reportedly spent over $600 million on border security, requiring state resources that could otherwise be allocated to other services. This resolution serves not only as a request for reimbursement but also as a formal expression of dissatisfaction with federal inaction on border protection.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR61 appears to align with a sense of urgency and frustration from state lawmakers regarding the border situation. Proponents of the resolution argue that it is imperative for the federal government to acknowledge its responsibilities and support states affected by border security issues. There is a prevailing belief among supporters that reimbursing Texas for its expenditures is not only justified but necessary to ensure the state can manage its resources effectively. Conversely, there may be skepticism or opposition from those who believe that such reimbursements could set a precedent or could be seen as an ineffective approach to addressing the broader issues of immigration and border control.

Contention

A notable point of contention is the extent of the federal government's responsibilities in relation to state efforts, particularly in securing national borders. Opponents of HCR61 might argue against the allocation of federal funds as a viable solution, questioning the efficacy of reimbursing states without addressing the root causes of illegal immigration and border security concerns. Furthermore, discussions might arise regarding the prioritization of funding for border security over other critical state services. Hence, the resolution not only reflects a plea for financial support but also opens a broader dialogue about state versus federal responsibilities in immigration and security policy.

Companion Bills

TX SCR5

Identical Urging Congress to reimburse the State of Texas for bearing the financial burden of the federal government's responsibility to secure the Texas-Mexico international border.

Previously Filed As

TX SR678

Requesting Congress to reimburse the State of Texas for funds used or will be used to meet federal obligations to secure the southern border.

TX HCR2

Urging the Texas attorney general to file suit against the federal government for injunctive relief from the Border Patrol's practice of destroying barriers placed by Texas along its international border.

TX SCR1

Declaring an invasion of the State of Texas by transnational cartel terrorists; urging the Governor to accelerate construction of a wall along the southern border; urging the U.S. Congress to deploy military forces.

TX SCR29

Declaring an invasion of the State of Texas by transnational cartel terrorists, urging the governor to accelerate the construction of a wall along the Southern Border, and urging Congress to deploy military forces to combat transnational cartels.

TX HCR7

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR20

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR5

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX SCR2

Declaring an invasion of the State of Texas by transnational cartel terrorists, urging the governor to accelerate the construction of a wall along the Southern Border, and demanding that Congress deploy military forces to combat transnational cartels.

TX HB13

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.

TX HCR50

Urging Congress to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.