Since the Biden administration came into office, Texas has faced an influx of illegal immigrants followed by a wave of crimes. Many states and national agricultural organizations have written to the Biden administration requesting immediate action to enforce immigration laws.

The Texas Department of Agriculture, 50 other states, and national organizations wrote to the Secretaries of the Departments of Homeland Security, Agriculture, and Interior as follows: “The current situation should not be accepted by you or any American,” they wrote. “People are treated as a disposable source of income, and landowners live in fear while coyotes [(human smugglers)] are present. Reap the wind and rain from leaving people poor. Do not let this continue. On behalf of the farm and ranch family, and our community, we encourage you to be aware of the crisis and take immediate action.”

Border Patrol Overwhelmed with the Immigrant Influx

Brandon Judd, President of the National Border Patrol Council, reported that in June that guards encountered about 190,000 people, and 51,000 illegal immigrants avoided capture. Customs and Border Protection apprehended 210,000 crosses in July. Near the Rio Grande Valley region in Texas, agents regularly encounter 3,000 immigrants a day.

Southern Border States Face Crime to Property

Farmers and ranchers living along the southern border face extensive damage to their property and crops, causing financial difficulties. Landowners’ crops have been destroyed, water resources invaded, property vandalized, and rubbish strewn across the property. The safety and security of these families are under threat.

This concern is faced not only by Texans but all along the southern border. Arizona, New Mexico, and California face the same issue. Long-time residents of these states face threats to personal security, causing financial hardship and turmoil.

Texas Governor Seeks Immigration Help from Federal Government

The Texas Department of Agriculture encouraged the residents to seek help from elected leaders at both federal and state levels, demanding immediate action to enforce immigration laws. Gov. Abbott requested that all Texan landowners and ranchers complete a state self-reported damage investigation to report damages.

On May 31, the governor issued a disaster declaration. The declaration urging the federal government for the costs of illegal immigrants breaking into their lands and committing crimes. The state legislature was urged to allocate funds for border security.

To learn more about this blog post or if you have any other immigration concerns, please feel free to contact me at rglahoud@norris-law.com or (484) 544-0022.