EL PASO, Texas – The Texas Border Coalition (TBC) has expressed its concerns regarding the Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act recently introduced in the U.S. Senate. While acknowledging some positive aspects of the legislation, the TBC believes that it falls short in addressing the critical issues related to migration and border management.
Commissioner David Stout, Chairman of the Texas Border Coalition, emphasized the need for legislative action to address the broken immigration and asylum systems. He stated, "Dead on arrival is not an option." The TBC firmly believes that Congress holds the responsibility for implementing meaningful reforms.
Stout acknowledged that the Senate legislation includes commendable provisions to improve border management. He specifically highlighted the need for enhanced coordination and funding for humanitarian organizations. Stout also expressed support for the addition of more asylum officers and immigration judge teams to expedite the processing of asylum cases, as long as due process is upheld.
However, the TBC believes that the legislation overlooks the importance of legitimate trade and travel. Stout argued that undermining free trade while pushing a flawed asylum-seeking policy is misguided. He emphasized the opportunity for the United States to enhance economic growth and strengthen its relationship with Mexico, a crucial trading partner. Stout also pointed out that border closures have detrimental effects on border communities and U.S. consumers who rely on lawful trade and travel.
The TBC also criticized the allocation of resources at southwest land ports of entry. Stout argued that instead of solely focusing on the militarization of the border between ports of entry, more funding should be invested in combating illicit drug trafficking, which predominantly occurs at the ports of entry. Stout emphasized the need to separate immigration from the drug trade, stating that data shows immigrants are not responsible for bringing illegal drugs into the country.
Furthermore, the TBC believes that the legislation fails to adequately address the workforce requirements of the U.S. economy or establish a transparent, legal pathway for immigration and asylum seekers. Stout emphasized the importance of increasing legal pathways for individuals to come to the United States, including providing legal status to DACA recipients and implementing a guest worker program for specific industries. Without these provisions, the legislation undermines economic growth and restricts opportunities for those seeking refuge or opportunities in the United States.
The TBC believes that addressing these critical needs is imperative for the welfare of the border region and the nation as a whole.
