Austin, T.X. – Today, Texas legislators heard from the public regarding House Bill 7 and House Bill 20. HB 7 would create “Border Protection Courts,” decreasing the due process rights of immigrants and all Texans. HB 20 would create a “Border Protection Unit” that would empower even regular citizens to racially profile and detain immigrants and people of color. It would also allow the state to deport immigrants exercising their right to seek asylum. Both bills would also promote the funding and implementation of a wall along the border.
Juan Jose Martinez-Guevera, Texas Advocacy Coordinator of United We Dream, said:
“As Texans, we pride ourselves on caring for one another. We know everyone, across age, race, and background, has the right to move and search for a better life. Despite that, some Texan politicians continue to waste our taxpayer funds on racist and outright fascist attacks against our Texan communities. Extremist conservative Texas politicians have shown themselves to be equal persecutors of all people, including immigrants, queer and trans people, people with uteruses, and many others. Through these bills, they continue to attack and undo the due process rights of all Texans.
Instead of diverting our public resources toward policies that make it harder for people who are immigrants to call Texas home, we must address the real concerns of Texans: extreme weather due to climate change, guaranteeing housing for all, and ensuring people have the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies. We need Texan legislators to denounce policies that harm our communities and focus efforts and funding for community care and protection for all Texans.”
