Texas Senate Bill SCR4

Texas 2021 - 87th 2nd C.S.

Caption

Directing the Texas Division of Emergency Management and Department of State Health Services to establish and maintain a system of guidance, coordination, and oversight to address hospital understaffing and ICU bed shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Impact

The resolution underscores the cultural and educational institutions that thrive in the Texas-Mexico border region, including esteemed universities and health care facilities that serve diverse communities. It notes that several cities within the border have earned recognition as All-American Cities and showcases the area's ecological richness with various parks and natural sites, vital for both local biodiversity and tourism. This acknowledgment fosters a sense of pride and promotes the historical significance of the border region to the larger narrative of Texas.

Summary

SCR4, a Texas Senate Concurrent Resolution, emphasizes the significance of the Texas-Mexico border region, which encompasses 14 counties and is home to approximately 10 percent of the state's population. The resolution highlights the vital economic contributions of the border, noting that it generated over $350 billion in annual gross domestic product by 2019, and outlines how border trade activities support a substantial number of jobs and enhance the local economy. Furthermore, it recognizes that regions like El Paso and Laredo are essential trade hubs that facilitate the flow of goods and services.

Contention

As a concurrent resolution, SCR4 does not have the legislative power to enact new laws or directly alter existing statutes; however, it serves as an important statement of recognition and support for the border area, likely influencing future discussions and policymaking regarding funding and resources. Some critics may question the resolution's efficacy in addressing the pressing issues faced by border communities, particularly around immigration and health services, arguing that recognition needs to be accompanied by actionable support and changes in existing policies. Ultimately, the resolution reflects a commitment to acknowledging and understanding the border's complex dynamics, which are often overshadowed in state politics.