Utah Valley Times

Yesterday, Representative John Curtis (R-UT) introduced the Border Security State Reimbursement Act, a legislation aimed at reimbursing states for expenses related to securing the United States borders. The bill was introduced in response to the ongoing border situation and was accompanied by Congressman Curtis' visit to the southern border to gain first-hand insight.

"I regret that the President and Secretary Mayorkas have been negligent in their duty to secure the border and created a situation where states feel it is necessary to act individually," said Rep. Curtis. "Congress has the power of the purse, and we must support these states spending dollars to end this humanitarian crisis. It is enabling fentanyl trafficking that hurts Utahns."

The Border Security State Reimbursement Act seeks to reimburse states for the funds they have utilized to send law enforcement personnel to secure the border. The aim is to ensure that the costs incurred due to the federal government's inaction do not compromise other essential services.

The need for such reimbursement measures is evident, considering the substantial expenses states have incurred in their efforts to enhance border security. For instance, Texas alone has spent a staggering $4 billion in the last two years on border security measures. Even the Democratic Governor of Arizona recognizes the need for federal reimbursement, having requested at least half a million dollars to address the consequences of federal border inaction.

The introduction of the Border Security State Reimbursement Act highlights the urgency of addressing the border crisis and the responsibility of Congress to provide support to states that have taken measures to protect their residents. By reimbursing these states, the bill aims to alleviate the financial burden they face due to the federal government's failure to secure the border effectively.

To access the full text of the Border Security State Reimbursement Act, interested individuals can click [here](link to the bill). The introduction of this legislation signifies a step towards addressing the border situation and providing relief to states that have shouldered significant costs in their efforts to secure the United States borders.