Texas State Representative Cody Harris has reacted to a Texas Tribune article that reported the state had spent $148 million on transporting undocumented immigrants northward. Harris, who co-authored bills on border security and immigration during the 88th Legislative Session, suggested that the costs associated with relocating migrants should be evaluated based on the program's "effectiveness" and "necessity."
"Ultimately, Texas has spent an average of $75 million annually to relocate 102,000 migrants to locations across the country," said Texas state Rep. Cody Harris, according to Facebook.
The Texas Tribune reported that since April 2022, Texas Governor Greg Abbott launched a program to transport migrants, released from federal custody, to other states. The aim was to alleviate the burden on Texas attributed to "open-border advocates." Over nearly two years, more than 102,000 migrants have been transported to cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles at a cost exceeding $148 million. Although this represents a small fraction of Texas' budget, debates persist over whether taxpayer dollars should continue supporting this initiative. Proponents argue it highlights border challenges while critics question its necessity and cost-effectiveness.
Rep. Harris' post on Facebook
| https://www.facebook.com/CodyforTexas/posts
In response to the Texas Tribune's piece, Harris posted on X. He said that the annual cost of transporting 102,000 migrants across the country is approximately $75 million. He also stated that annual costs of "illegal immigration" for Texas taxpayers include: "Uncompensated healthcare: $579-717 million; annual housing: $152 million; emergency Medicaid: $62-90 million; CHIP perinatal coverage: $30-38 million; and education: $31-63 million."
According to Texas Legislature Online, Harris co-authored border security legislation during last year's legislative session. House Bill 20 - titled "Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state..." - was returned to committee.
In October 2023, Harris posted on Facebook saying: "It’s 3:40 in the morning, and the Texas House just passed a massive Border Security bill creating a new state felony for illegal entry and allowing state law enforcement to immediately deport illegal immigrants." He also mentioned a bill proposing an additional $1.5 billion in border security funding.
Harris, a Republican, represents Texas' 8th Congressional District. According to Ballotpedia, he is running for re-election in the Republican primary on March 5, 2024.
