Homeland Security approves $7.5 billion reimbursement to Texas for border operations
The Department of Homeland Security will transfer $7.5 billion to Texas to cover costs incurred by the state's border security program during the Biden administration.
Homeland Security has authorized a $7.5 billion transfer to Texas, marking the first time the state has been reimbursed for border-security expenses incurred during the Biden administration’s immigration surge. Governor Greg Abbott confirmed the payment after speaking with Secretary Markwayne Mullin, describing it as a victory for Texas taxpayers who funded Operation Lone Star. The money is drawn from the State Border Security Reinforcement Fund established by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a legislative effort led by Senator John Cornyn.
Abbott indicated that Texas will also request the Justice Department to repay a further $3 billion spent on border initiatives. Operation Lone Star, now in its fifth year, has deployed National Guard troops, state troopers, and sheriff’s deputies, building barriers and expanding technology to deter illegal entries and seize narcotics.
Why it matters
The reimbursement shifts billions of border-security costs from Texas taxpayers to the federal government.
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