AUSTIN, TEXAS – Today, Representative Bryan Slaton of House District 2 called for border security legislation to be included and made a priority in the special session to be called by Governor Abbott. The crisis at the border has deteriorated exponentially over the last several months since the inauguration of Joe Biden, which has been highlighted by the repeated pleas for help by officials and citizens alike in the border regions, Slaton noted in a press release issued Monday afternoon.
“Texas must finally stand up and protect our citizens, our sovereignty and the sovereignty of our sister States. Governor Abbott last week underscored the need for Texas to begin this process, including by building a wall. I totally agree. That is why I am urging Governor Abbott to immediately call a special session and make border security legislation a top priority. The people of Texas are rightly calling for action, and the People’s house must fulfill their demand,” Slaton said.
During the 87th Legislative Session, filed House Bill 2862 which would have funded the construction of a border wall. It would have required the wall to have the same specifications as the wall started by President Trump. The bill also laid out provisions that would have allowed for resources to be received from other states, as well as donations from private citizens, Slaton noted. The proposed bill was never granted a hearing.
“We all knew that we needed a border wall before President Trump campaigned about it. He was able to get some of it built. Biden has halted construction and is allowing for even more illegal drugs and human trafficking to pour across the border. If the federal government won’t act, Texas must do whatever is necessary to end this crisis, Slaton said.
In addition to building a substantial border wall, Slaton is calling for Texas sheriffs to be empowered by Texas law to arrest, house and deport illegal aliens. The Legislature must discuss this critical issue and send legislation deemed necessary to the governor’s desk to protect the people of Texas, the release issued from Slaton’s office stated.