Good morning, Chairman Tepper and distinguished members of the committee.
My name is Selene Rodriguez, I am the campaign director for the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s Secure & Sovereign Texas initiative, and I am here to testify in support of House Bill 176 today.
During the height of the border crisis we experienced under the Biden administration, dozens of states dedicated valuable personnel and resources to Texas in support of Operation Lone Star efforts (DeMarco, 2024).
Now, Texas has a historic opportunity to maximize our efforts not just at the border but in every community to ensure the safety of all American citizens. President Donald Trump has signed a series of executive orders recognizing the role that states have played in border security and ensuring they have the support to continue to do so.
Read the full written testimony below.