Greg Abbott Renews Texas Border Emergency for 69th Time
Governor Greg Abbott renewed a border security disaster proclamation to maintain expanded executive powers despite federal reports of historic lows in illegal crossings.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott renewed a border security disaster proclamation for the 69th time since 2021, asserting that illegal crossings remain an "ongoing and imminent threat" to the state. This declaration grants Abbott the authority to bypass the state Legislature to shift funds, suspend regulations, and award noncompetitive contracts.
Since January 2025, the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Military Department have awarded more than $5 million in no-bid contracts. These expenditures include over $2 million paid to CTC Gunworks LLC for rifles and pistols, as well as funding for vehicles.
Abbott's insistence on an emergency state contradicts data from the Trump administration, which reports that migrant flows have reached historic lows since January 2025. Monthly apprehensions have dropped from over 180,000 in 2021 to an average of 8,000 this year.
Critics and some state legislators argue the emergency status is no longer justified. State Representative Mary González has criticized the lack of checks and balances on border funding, suggesting some appropriations are questionable. Abbott maintains that constant vigilance is required to combat cartels and fentanyl trafficking, stating the border must be secured "forever."
