A new study reveals that the invasion at the southern border is costing Texas taxpayers nearly $13.4 billion a year.
The analysis from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) found the crisis at the border is costing taxpayers nationwide $182 billion annually. Texas taxpayers, meanwhile, have been on the hook for public education, indigent medical care, housing and nutrition assistance, and other benefits such as in-state tuition at public universities.
The cost to each Texan is about $4,466 annually.
Dan Stein, the president of FAIR, says it’s a “staggering burden on Texas taxpayers that must be addressed by the State Legislature during the current session.”
“The clock is ticking. Texas lawmakers have just two and half months to take action to bring down the state’s enormous price tag for illegal immigration,” said Stein. “Swift action on making E-Verify mandatory for all Texas employers and repealing the state’s policy of granting in-state tuition benefits to illegal aliens are absolutely essential, among other steps.”
“In the meantime, Gov. Abbott must use all available powers to curb the massive influx of new illegal aliens. At $13.4 billion a year, the costs of providing for illegal aliens and their dependents in Texas is unsustainable,” he added.
Chris Russo, the president of Texans for Strong Borders, agrees.
“These numbers underscore a harsh reality and therefore emphasize the continued need for the Texas Legislature and Governor Abbott to lead by taking decisive action to mandate E-Verify, end in-state tuition for illegal aliens, and declare an invasion for the sake of the future of our state,” said Russo.
Border security is a legislative priority of both the Republican Party of Texas and Gov. Greg Abbott. Though the state Legislature is 58 days into their 140-day session, no border security legislation has been passed as of yet.
