SUPPORTING FEDERAL REIMBURSEMENT FOR TEXAS' BORDER SECURITY OPERATIONS

As legislators that successfully won re-election in the two most competitive seats in the state, we agree that Governor Abbott is right to demand federal reimbursement for Texas' $11.5 billion investment in border security operations. Border security is a critical responsibility for both the state and federal government, and we must work together to protect the safety and prosperity of Texas and the United States.

However, while these historic investments have funded large-scale operations, they have overlooked the needs of the very communities bearing the brunt of these efforts. Border communities have faced increase strain on their infrastructure our roads, water systems, and ports remain underserved and ill-prepared to handle increased demands. If Governor Abbott is successful in recouping these funds, they should be invested in our border communities through needed public improvement projects, our public schools, healthcare access, and more.

If Texas is to continue playing this pivotal role in border security, it's time to match those operations with real investment in the people and places on the front lines. Supporting border communities isn't just smart policy-it's essential to ensuring the long-term success of our efforts.