If enacted, HM24 significantly highlights the state's stance on border security and immigration issues. The bill suggests that current conditions at the border require immediate and robust federal intervention, including strengthened border enforcement measures. This implies a shift towards prioritizing national security and public safety as critical concerns for New Mexico, thereby influencing state law and future legislative initiatives aimed at funding and executing protective measures along the border.
Summary
House Memorial 24 (HM24) urges the United States Congress to allocate funds and focus to enhance public safety at the New Mexico-Mexico border. The bill arises from concerns surrounding the rising number of illegal crossings and the associated rise in crime stemming from these incidents. Legislators highlight the urgency to address the situation, citing statistics that indicate an unprecedented level of migrant encounters at the border, which poses a significant threat to the safety of New Mexico residents. This memorial, therefore, seeks to prompt federal action to better protect communities at the border.
Contention
Despite its intentions, HM24 may face criticism regarding its approach to immigration reform and border security. Opponents may argue that increasing enforcement and funding does not address the root causes of migration, such as poverty and violence in home countries. Additionally, concerns regarding human rights and the treatment of migrants could become focal points in discussions surrounding the bill, especially from organizations advocating for humane immigration policies.
Recognizing that article I, section 10 of the United States Constitution explicitly reserves to the States the sovereign power to repel an invasion and defend their citizenry from the overwhelming and "imminent danger" posed by paramilitary, narco-terrorist cartels, terrorists and criminal actors who seized control of our southern border.
An original resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the President of the United States possesses legal authority under existing law to take immediate and necessary action to secure the southwest border of the United States.
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.
Fund and Complete the Border Wall Act This bill establishes funding for a U.S.-Mexico border barrier and revises how border patrol agents are compensated for overtime. The Department of the Treasury shall set up an account for funding the design, construction, and maintenance of the barrier. The funds in the account are appropriated only for that purpose and for vehicles and equipment for border patrol agents. For each fiscal year, financial assistance to a country shall be reduced by $2,000 for each citizen or national of that country apprehended for illegally entering the United States through its southern border. The reduced amount shall be transferred to the border barrier account. The Department of State may opt not to reduce amounts appropriated to Mexico for various military and law enforcement-related activities. This bill establishes a 5% fee on foreign remittance transfers and increases the fee for the arrival/departure I-94 form for various aliens entering the United States, with part of the fees to go into the border barrier account. By December 31, 2023, DHS shall (1) take all actions necessary, including constructing barriers, to prevent illegal crossings along the U.S.-Mexico barrier; and (2) achieve operational control over all U.S. international borders. The bill changes how border patrol agents receive overtime pay when working up to 100 hours in a two-week period. For hours worked above 80, an agent shall receive at least 150% of the agent's regular hourly rate.