TEXAS IS SECURING ITS BORDERS

Texas Leaders Extend State-Led Border Surge

Extension of operations ensures continuity through fiscal year

Having established the model for securing the border in the absence of effective federal action, Texas leaders have reached an agreement to extend the ongoing law enforcement surge through the end of the current fiscal year. Signed by the governor, lieutenant governor and speaker, the budget execution will marshal resources from a variety of state sources to enhance the state's efforts to secure the border region.

Effective December 1 through August 2015, the funding agreement would transfer FY15 funding to extend the presence of personnel from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Texas Military Forces (TMF) and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) along the border. The agreement is subject to approval by the Legislative Budget Board at its Dece mber 1 meeting.

"Texas has proven beyond any doubt that this border can be secured, even if the federal government refuses to take the steps necessary to do so as required by the Constitution," Gov. Rick Perry said. "This agreement will ensure the hardworking men and women from DPS, the Texas National Guard and Texas Parks and Wildlife, who have been working with local and federal partners, have the resources they need to maintain a robust law enforcement presence along the border until the Legislature can act."

The agreement authorizes DPS to implement 10-hour shifts for its commissioned officers, which will immediately increase the department's patrol coverage along the border. This authorization will increase the statewide full-time-equivalent (FTE) count by more than 650.

"Having spent the last eight years appropriating more than $800 million for border security, I am proud to see the effectiveness of Operation Strong Safety and believe its continuation is essential to the safety of all Texans. I am very pleased to have reached the consensus needed to extend border surge operations through the end of next August," Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst said. "In the absence of sufficient action from the federal government, the state of Texas has proven it is possible to secure the border, reduce crime, and combat the impacts of illegal immigration. This agreement proves Texas is serious about border security."

Funds for DPS would include the addition of new shallow-water boats and other technological capabilities, which would be used to extend tactical capabilities as well as the surge footprint beyond the Rio Grande Valley Sector.

"This approach provides an important bridge to the 2015 legislative session," House Speaker Joe Straus said. "The state's law enforcement agencies will have the tools and technology they need to continue an enhanced presence on the border. Meanwhile, this funding will allow members of the next Legislature to evaluate the state's border security strategy during the session and make adjustments if necessary."

Source of Funds
Disaster Funds : $13.7m
TxDOT General Revenue Bond Debt Service : $47.9m
TPFA Bond Debt Service : $17.5m
Emerging Technology Fund revenues : $7.0m
Total : $86.1m