Texas Governor Greg Abbott has once again renewed the state’s border security disaster proclamation, citing an ongoing and imminent threat posed by unlawful crossings along the Texas–Mexico border. The latest renewal, issued on June 21, 2025, extends the original May 2021 declaration and now includes over 70 counties across South, Central, and West Texas. This move underscores the state’s continued efforts to address what officials describe as a persistent border crisis.
The disaster proclamation, first issued in May 2021, was intended to provide the state with additional tools to manage the influx of migrants and associated criminal activities. Under Section 418.014 of the Texas Government Code, the governor is authorized to declare a state of disaster when conditions pose an imminent threat. The proclamation allows for the mobilization of state resources, including law enforcement and the National Guard, to assist in border security operations.
The June 2025 renewal expands the list of affected counties, reflecting the widespread impact of the border situation. Counties such as Aransas, Atascosa, Brewster, Cameron, El Paso, Hidalgo, Maverick, and Webb are among those included. The inclusion of these counties enables local governments to access state resources and funding to bolster their border security measures.
Central to Texas’s border security strategy is Operation Lone Star, a joint initiative launched in 2021 by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Military Department. The operation aims to deter illegal immigration, human smuggling, and drug trafficking through increased patrols, surveillance, and arrests. As of June 2024, Operation Lone Star has reportedly resulted in over 513,700 migrant apprehensions, 44,000 criminal arrests, and the seizure of 489 million doses of fentanyl.
In support of these efforts, the state has implemented grant programs such as the Operation Lone Star Grant Program (OLS) and the Local Border Security Program (LBSP). These programs provide funding to local governments for law enforcement personnel, equipment, and other resources necessary for border security operations.
Governor Abbott’s continued use of disaster declarations for border security has sparked legal and political debates. Critics argue that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and that the state’s actions may overstep constitutional boundaries. Supporters contend that the federal government’s perceived inaction necessitates state intervention to protect communities.
The state’s aggressive border policies have led to legal challenges, including disputes over the deployment of razor wire and the construction of barriers along the Rio Grande. In some cases, federal courts have intervened to limit state actions, citing federal jurisdiction over immigration matters.
The renewed disaster proclamation has tangible effects on local communities. Counties included in the declaration can access additional state resources, but they also bear the logistical and financial burdens of increased law enforcement activities. Some local officials have expressed concerns about the strain on public services and the potential for civil rights violations.
Conversely, proponents argue that the measures are necessary to address the challenges posed by illegal immigration and associated criminal activities. They point to the reported successes of Operation Lone Star in reducing illegal crossings and enhancing public safety.
As Texas continues to grapple with border security challenges, Governor Abbott’s renewal of the disaster proclamation signifies the state’s commitment to a robust response. The ongoing debate over the balance of state and federal authority in immigration enforcement remains a contentious issue, with significant implications for policy and governance.
