Staff Reports
In a bold move to protect their respective state border rights, Republican representatives Chip Roy of Texas and Dan Bishop of North Carolina have teamed up to introduce a groundbreaking bill. This legislation aims to empower states and their attorneys general to challenge the federal government and enforce their own border protection laws.
#EXCLUSIVE — @RepChipRoy & @RepDanBishop seek to establish states’ ability to defend borders in challenge to Biden administration https://t.co/Gt7H1TCYFn https://t.co/Gt7H1TCYFn
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) February 14, 2024
According to the bill, dubbed the Standing Up to the Executive Branch for Immigration Enforcement Act, states would have the legal standing to challenge the secretary of Homeland Security or U.S. attorney general when it comes to border policies. The bill also lists specific instances where states can take legal action against the federal government if they can prove physical or financial harm to their residents.
Roy, in a fiery statement, accused the Biden administration of turning a blind eye to existing laws and allowing an “invasion” at the southern border. He emphasized the rights of states and the American people to defend their sovereignty and safety. Roy’s passionate stance is supported by his co-sponsor, Bishop, who expressed determination in fighting against the open borders agenda and for the preservation of law and order.
The bill further specifies provisions within the Immigration and Nationality Act that would bolster the enforcement capabilities of state attorneys general. It seeks to hold the federal government accountable for expediting the removal of illegal immigrants and restrict the granting of parole to unlawful residents that could harm the state or its residents. Additionally, the legislation proposes expedited court procedures to ensure swift resolution of border-related disputes.
This legislative move comes in the midst of a heated battle in Texas concerning the handling of the southern border. Governor Greg Abbott’s decision to empower the state national guard and establish border security policies has sparked conflicts with the federal government. Democrat lawmakers have called for the federalization of the Texas National Guard, and the Supreme Court’s recent ruling in favor of the Biden administration has only added fuel to the fire.
Furthermore, in a show of solidarity, Republican governors from other states have pledged support for Abbott’s efforts, with Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida even announcing plans to reestablish the Florida State Guard. The political landscape is buzzing with tension and fierce determination to protect state borders and push back against the federal government’s open borders policies.
The bill introduced by Roy and Bishop is reflective of a growing sentiment among conservative lawmakers, including Representative Matt Gaetz, who recently filed a bill to prevent federal officials from tampering with state-implemented barriers along the southern border. This coordinated effort underscores the Republican party’s unwavering commitment to securing the nation’s borders and upholding the rule of law.
