Texas has invested billions in border security efforts, but questions remain about the impact of the spending.
State officials report that $11 billion has been allocated to enhance security along the U.S.-Mexico border, funding both manpower and physical barriers, including 100 miles of razor wire and sections of a border wall.
Mike Banks, Texas' border czar, told lawmakers that a floating barrier has also been installed in the Rio Grande as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal immigration.
"It also serves as a force multiplier, allowing law enforcement to control larger areas with much less man power," he said.
Banks noted a significant reduction in illegal crossings in Texas. Two years ago, the state saw more than 4,000 illegal entries daily, but that figure has since dropped to around 500 a day. However, Banks said other border states have seen a rise in illegal crossings during the same period.
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