Relating to accounting for costs incurred by this state as a result of the presence of persons who are not lawfully present in the United States.
Impact
If enacted, SB764 would affect state laws by adding a new layer of fiscal accountability for costs attributed to undocumented individuals. This legislation would necessitate that the state government keeps an annual track of such expenditures, which could potentially influence future budgetary allocations and policy decisions. The bill calls for a detailed breakdown of costs associated with education, law enforcement, healthcare, and border security, thus assuring that these expenses are acknowledged and considered in legislative discussions.
Summary
SB764, relating to the accounting of costs incurred by the state due to the presence of persons who are not lawfully present in the United States, mandates that the Texas Comptroller provide a financial estimation every two years regarding these costs. The bill aims to detail the expenditures related to education, healthcare, and incarceration that arise from the presence of undocumented individuals. By requiring regular reports on these costs, the bill intends to present a clearer picture of the financial burden that illegal immigration imposes on state resources.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SB764 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary measure to ensure that the state fully understands the financial implications of illegal immigration, thereby justifying increased federal pressure for assistance in managing border security and immigration enforcement. This perspective is supported by legislators who view the detailed accounting as essential for sound fiscal policy. However, opponents raise concerns about the potential stigmatization of undocumented immigrants and fear that the focus on expenditure might overlook the contributions that these communities make to Texas's economy.
Contention
Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding SB764 include the ethics of tracking costs associated with undocumented individuals and the implications it may have for social services and education funding. Critics worry that such a focus may lead to a misrepresentation of the costs versus the benefits of immigrant populations while diverting attention from the systemic issues at play in immigration policy. Furthermore, the responsibility placed on the state in regards to accounting for these costs could provoke debates about federal responsibilities concerning border control and immigration enforcement.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Homeland Security Division, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.
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 address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force and making funds available to certain governmental entities.