Lt. Gov. Patrick Releases Statement on Immigration Bills

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (R) released a statement commenting on the new series of bills directed at stopping illegal immigration, as well as illegal smuggling.

“Texans are fed up with the Biden Administration’s abdication of their constitutional responsibility to enforce our southern border. Here’s my official statement on the Texas Senate’s passage of Border Security Bills, SB 2, SB 8, and HB 2  https://bit.ly/43vH7JU #txlege"

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick began his statement by criticizing the President, Vice President and Secretary of State’s handling of border security.

“The Texas Senate appropriated $5.1 billion of Texans’ tax dollars to secure the border, the most in Texas history, to step into the breach created by Biden, Harris and Mayorkas. In addition, the creation of the Texas Border Force will further bolster our historic efforts to keep Texas safe.”

Several bills were recently passed targeted at stopping illegal immigration from happening at the U.S.-Mexico border. Lt. Gov. Patrick discussed the bills as well as addressed the Texas House’s “vacation”.

“The Texas Senate is in Austin working diligently to address the priorities of Texans, including these critical bills. The Senate will pass these bills over and over again in every special session until the Texas House returns from their vacation,” said Lt. Gov. Patrick.

The Lieutenant Governor explained the details behind the newly-signed SB 2 which allows for illegal immigrants trying to enter America to be taken into custody by Texas officials. 

“SB 2, by Sen. Brian Birdwell, creates a new state crime for entering Texas illegally. SB 2 authorizes Texas law enforcement to arrest and prosecute all people who cross the border illegally anywhere in Texas.”

The offense is technically considered a felony and can have various punishments depending on the offender’s history.

“Punishment starts with up to 1 year in jail for a first-time offender, two years in state jail for a second-time offender and up to life in prison for convicted felons who illegally cross the border.”

Lt. Gov. Patrick discussed the Sen. Brian Birdwell-sponsored bill which would use tactics to stop immigration at unauthorized entry ports.

“SB 8, by Sen. Brian Birdwell, establishes the Texas Border Force in the Texas Rangers division of the Texas Department of Public Safety and provides important tools for the state to fight transnational crime.”

Illegal smuggling has become a major issue for many Texas politicians. HB 2 is an attempt to punish those who smuggle people or illegal substances.

“HB 2, by Sen. Pete Flores, provides mandatory minimum sentences for the operation of stash houses and for human smuggling, and increases penalties for these crimes committed during a disaster declaration.”

Texas Representative Sylvia Garcia (D) released a statement celebrating the approval of a $36.9 million federal grant for the construction of 2 railroad underpasses in Texas.

Rep. Garcia tweeted her support of the federal grant that addresses the lack of funding for the city’s railroad infrastructure.

“Proud to announce a new $36.9 million+ federal grant that will close the funding gap for the city to construct two railroad underpasses at Commerce Street and Navigation Boulevard and York Street in the East End. These essential funds will improve safety in our communities,” said Rep. Garcia.

“I thank the @USDOTFRA for making these funds available, and I look forward to watching the positive impact this brings to Houston residents.”