Texas State Representative David Spiller of District 68 is championing new legislation aimed at addressing border security and prohibiting foreign land ownership in the state. Spiller, who recently secured a third term with a resounding 87.22% of the vote, highlighted these priorities in a recent discussion on Big Country Politics.
Key Legislative Focuses
- Border Security
Spiller emphasized that border security remains a top concern for Texans, especially in rural areas like those he represents. He is working on legislation in collaboration with the governor’s office to mitigate the impacts of illegal immigration.- Spiller co-sponsored SB 4, a landmark border security bill, currently tied up in the courts, which criminalizes illegal entry and re-entry into the U.S.
- He criticized the Biden administration for failing to secure the border and expressed optimism about future federal reimbursements for Texas’ border security expenses under a Trump administration.
- Mandatory Immigration Status Verification
Spiller has proposed a bill requiring all local governments in Texas to verify the immigration status of individuals arrested or charged.- This measure seeks to address gaps in enforcement by ensuring local governments participate in identifying and reporting undocumented individuals, particularly those with criminal records.
- “The first and foremost folks that need to go back are convicted felons who are here illegally, creating problems and threatening our state and country,” Spiller said.
- Ban on Foreign Land Ownership
Spiller is drafting legislation to prohibit foreign ownership of Texas land, a move he argues is essential for preserving state sovereignty and addressing national security concerns.
Broader Implications
Spiller highlighted the strain illegal immigration places on rural resources, including schools and healthcare. As General Counsel for a hospital district, he noted that unreimbursed healthcare costs fall heavily on local taxpayers.
He expressed hope that a Republican-controlled federal government could reinstate strict border policies and provide financial relief for the billions Texas has spent addressing border-related challenges.
These legislative efforts reflect broader concerns across the state about security, resource allocation, and state autonomy amid ongoing federal inaction on key border and immigration issues.
