Express that Ohio stands with Texas; denounce open-border policy
This resolution underscores Ohio's stance on immigration and border security while supporting state-level actions taken by Texas to manage the crisis. It highlights the historical obligations of the federal government in securing national borders, which the resolution asserts have been neglected. By voicing support for the efforts of the Texas National Guard and calling for ongoing assistance from Ohio's own National Guard and State Highway Patrol, the resolution promotes an active role for state resources in addressing these challenges.
HCR12, a concurrent resolution introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives, expresses the state's solidarity with Texas regarding the ongoing immigration crisis attributed to what the resolution calls the Biden administration's 'open-border policies.' The resolution highlights concerns over the significant number of illegal crossings into the United States and the associated rise in drug trafficking, human trafficking, and violent crime. It specifically mentions the apprehension of over 400,000 unaccompanied minors, who may be victims of human trafficking, as a critical issue stemming from these policies.
Moreover, HCR12 also emphasizes support for legal immigration, welcoming individuals who wish to work and prosper in the United States. This aspect of the resolution attempts to present a balanced perspective, recognizing that while illegal immigration presents challenges, legal pathways for immigration are vital to the country's progress. The resolution calls for communication with federal officials and the distribution of copies to current congressional members from Ohio, indicating a logistical approach to ensure the state's stance is communicated effectively.
Notably, HCR12 calls for an affirmation of Governor DeWine's previous deployments of the Ohio National Guard to assist Texas in border security operations. While this may be viewed favorably by supporters who advocate for stringent immigration policies, it raises concerns among critics who argue that such resolutions may exacerbate tensions between state and federal authorities regarding immigration enforcement. Therefore, the resolution could spark debate on the effectiveness and appropriateness of using state law enforcement resources for federal immigration matters.