Texas Senate Bill SB825

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/16/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/9/25
• Voted on by Senate: 4/23/25
• Out of House Committee: 5/14/25

Caption

Relating to an annual study on the economic, environmental, and financial impact of illegal immigration in this state.

Impact

If enacted, SB825 will introduce a formal mechanism for reviewing the consequences of illegal immigration in Texas. This legislation will amend the Government Code, specifically adding a new subchapter for the annual immigration impact study. By emphasizing the need for empirical data, the bill aims to provide objective insights that could influence future legislative actions and resource allocation surrounding immigration issues. Collaborating with various agencies and organizations will ensure comprehensive data collection and analysis.

Summary

Senate Bill 825 mandates the Texas Office of the Governor to conduct an annual study focusing on the effects of illegal immigration on the state's economy, environment, and finances. The goal is to assess various impacts, aiding in developing informed policies related to immigration. This bill is an attempt to quantify the often-debated effects of immigration that have been central in political discussions, particularly in border states like Texas. A report summarizing the findings of these studies will be submitted every even-numbered year, offering a continual examination of these issues.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB825 appears to be mixed, with support emerging primarily from legislators who prioritize immigration enforcement and want to base policy on concrete data. Advocates argue that having systematic studies will help clarify the economic ramifications and guide more effective governance. However, there are also concerns from opponents who fear that the study's findings may be used to justify stricter immigration policies or reinforce negative narratives about immigrants, highlighting the importance of careful interpretation of the data.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding SB825 involve the methodologies and potential biases in the studies to be commissioned. Critics worry that the results could be skewed to reflect a particular political agenda, potentially impacting public perception and legislative outcomes concerning immigrant communities. Moreover, the bill does not specify how the findings will be used once published, raising questions about accountability and the commitment to using data responsibly in policy-making. The nature of the collaboration with various entities also prompts discussions about transparency and the objectivity of the research undertaken.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 752. Immigration
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section