Texas Senate Bill SCR9

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Urging Congress to explore and negotiate the creation of a binational framework allowing the United States and Mexico to address the threat of communicable diseases.

Impact

The bill emphasizes the necessity for collaboration between the U.S. and Mexico in order to safeguard the health of populations residing in border communities and throughout the Northern Hemisphere. It draws on the existing successful models of cooperation, such as the North American Development Bank (NADB) and the Border Environmental Cooperation Commission (BECC), which have been instrumental in funding environmental projects along the U.S.-Mexico border. The resolution calls for these institutions, or newly formed entities, to play a crucial role in enhancing public health infrastructure and resources.

Summary

SCR9 is a concurrent resolution that urges the United States Congress to engage in discussions designed to establish a binational framework with Mexico aimed at addressing the threats posed by communicable diseases, including the Zika virus. The resolution highlights the interconnectedness of health concerns at international borders and advocates for cooperative action to create necessary resources and infrastructure to improve public health responses across local, state, national, and binational levels.

Support

Supporters of SCR9 underscore the importance of a unified response to public health threats as vital for protecting both countries. They argue that sharing resources and expertise is crucial in combating communicable diseases that cross borders. This resolution serves as a call to action for addressing health disparities and fostering collaboration to improve outcomes for communities affected by these diseases.

Contention

Although SCR9 focuses on public health enhancement through cooperative efforts, potential contention may arise around funding sources and governance structures proposed for newly established frameworks. The resolution recommends that the governance of these efforts should involve representatives from both countries at multiple levels, including health departments, which may spark discussions regarding jurisdiction, resource allocation, and operational authority in managing public health initiatives.