Issue Position: Control the Borders

Issue Position

Enforcing border control with local Sheriffs' offices is the best way the state can help to control our borders. This is the Federal government's responsibility, but they cannot or will not do the job of controlling our borders and the people of Texas must be protected from the flood of criminals and drugs. A "Rapid Deployment Team" consisting of DPS and National Guardsmen should be developed to assist the local Sheriffs.

I visited the border with Sheriffs from the Valley area, and we authorized $110 million to the border Sheriffs to buy additional equipment using new technology. We also passed legislation penalizing employers who hire illegal aliens, this needs to be expanded.

We need to require all state agencies to fully cooperate with federal immigration authorities in enforcement of federal immigration laws. State agencies must check the status of an immigrant before permitting them to use government services. We should keep drivers licenses out of the hands of illegal aliens.

We need to withhold payment of any state dollars to cities which have a policy of "sanctuary city" and to require their police force to enforce immigration laws.

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