Texas House Bill HCR80

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Requesting the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house of representatives to create a joint interim committee to study the effects on international trade of wait times at points of entry between the United States and Mexico.

Impact

The resolution identifies that Mexico is Texas's largest trade partner and the U.S.'s third-largest trade partner, with significant amounts of trade passing through key customs districts like Laredo and El Paso. The resolution indicates that the free flow of commerce across the border is vital for economic prosperity, but congestion at checkpoints contributes to substantial financial losses for both nations. The committee's findings and subsequent recommendations are expected to be presented to the 84th Texas Legislature in January 2015, potentially leading to policy adjustments that could streamline operations at points of entry.

Summary

HCR80 is a House Concurrent Resolution that requests the creation of a joint interim committee to investigate the effects of wait times at points of entry between the United States and Mexico on international trade. The resolution highlights that trade between the U.S. and Mexico has grown significantly since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was implemented in 1994. As a result, the increase in the volume of goods crossing the border has led to prolonged and unpredictable wait times that pose challenges both economically and environmentally.

Contention

While HCR80 seeks to address a practical issue of efficiency in international trade, it may give rise to discussions around the complexities of border management, local community impacts, and environmental concerns. The focus on wait times at points of entry suggests a need to balance trade interests with the quality of life for residents living near the border who may be affected by increased vehicular idling and environmental ramifications. Criticism could arise from various stakeholders who may argue about possible oversight or lack of attention to local needs as discussions centring on statewide trade efficiency progress.