February 19, 2024 - Washington, D.C. —Last week,  U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) introduced the ‘‘State Border Security Act," a companion bill to legislation introduced by Senator JD Vance (R-OH) last month. The legislation, if enacted, would prohibit federal officers from removing barbed wire or any other barriers set up by state governments within 25 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border.

Rep. Gaetz’s legislation follows the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that enabled the Biden administration to proceed with removing barriers erected on the border by the State of Texas. The bill includes a provision to exclude fencing built to encourage, instead of prevent, illegal immigration. Furthermore, it would allow the Attorney General to request a court injunction relief if there is definitive evidence that a state government erected such fencing with the purpose of promoting illegal immigration.

“Last month, the Supreme Court gave the Biden administration the ability to destroy border fencing erected by Texas to protect its citizens from illegal aliens. My legislation, along with Sen. Vance’s, will codify that states along the Southern Border have the right to protect their territory.

Since the Biden administration refuses to take action, Congress must empower states to defend themselves against the unprecedented invasion at the Southern Border,” said Congressman Gaetz.

Full text of Congressman Gaetz’s bill can be found HERE. 
Source:  Congressman Matt Gaetz