Texas 2023 - 88th 3rd C.S.

Texas House Bill HCR2

Caption

Urging the Texas attorney general to file suit against the federal government for injunctive relief from the Border Patrol's practice of destroying barriers placed by Texas along its international border.

Impact

If HCR2 is enacted, it would signify a shift in the way Texas interacts with federal immigration enforcement agencies. By urging the state attorney general to pursue injunctive relief, the resolution seeks to affirm the authority of Texas to maintain its own border security measures without federal obstruction. This could lead to legal challenges that define the boundaries of state versus federal power in immigration enforcement and border control, potentially resulting in a precedent regarding state rights in matters of national security.

Summary

HCR2, also known as the Concurrent Resolution urging the Texas Attorney General, calls for legal action against the federal government due to the Border Patrol's reported actions of cutting through barriers installed by Texas along its international border. The resolution references an incident in Summer 2023 where U.S. Customs and Border Protection allegedly dismantled barbed wire barriers that had been installed to prevent unlawful entry by undocumented immigrants. This resolution emerges from concerns over the perceived federal interference with Texas's efforts to secure its borders and protect its citizens.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR2 appears to be largely supportive among proponents who view the resolution as a necessary step to uphold Texas's rights and responsibilities in protecting its borders. Advocates argue that federal actions threatening these barriers undermine state efforts to manage immigration effectively. Conversely, there may be dissent from those who believe such measures could exacerbate tensions between state and federal authorities or even misrepresent the intent of federal agencies that aim to manage immigration in a complex environment.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HCR2 include the ramifications of escalating state-federal tensions over immigration policy. Critics may argue that pursuing legal action against the federal government could lead to a prolonged conflict that distracts from comprehensive immigration reform. Additionally, concerns may arise over the implications of further militarizing local border security efforts and the potential impacts on communities near the border, particularly in relation to human rights and the treatment of migrants.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SCR39

Urging the federal government to take immediate action in addressing issues related to security at the border.

TX HB1543

Relating to the recovery by the attorney general from the federal government of certain border security expenditures.

TX SB16

Relating to the exercise of eminent domain authority by the Texas Facilities Commission to build a wall along this state's international border.

TX SB316

Relating to the exercise of eminent domain authority by the Texas Facilities Commission to build a wall along this state's international border.

TX SB8

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.

TX SCR1

Declaring an invasion of the State of Texas by transnational cartel terrorists; urging the Governor to accelerate construction of a wall along the southern border; urging the U.S. Congress to deploy military forces.

TX HCR5012

Urging Attorney General Kobach to protect Kansas federal employees by ensuring the legal integrity of governmental operations.

TX HB114

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.

TX HB76

Fund and Complete the Border Wall ActThis 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 going to the border barrier account.By December 31, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security 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.

TX HCR51

Demanding that Congress reimburse the State of Texas for the costs incurred in securing the southern border.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.