Texas to receive $7.5 billion in federal border security reimbursement

Texas will receive $7.5 billion in federal reimbursement for border security costs, Governor Greg Abbott announced. The funding, approved by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is drawn from the State Border Security Reinforcement Fund established under the federal ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’.

The reimbursement aims to offset expenses incurred through Operation Lone Star, a massive enforcement initiative launched by Texas in 2021. While the $7.5 billion provides significant relief, it remains less than the estimated $10 billion to $11 billion the state has spent on the operation, which utilizes the Texas National Guard, Department of Public Safety troopers, and various surveillance technologies.

Governor Abbott stated that the funding is a victory for taxpayers and noted that the state will continue to seek reimbursement for additional costs. The state's border security efforts have reportedly contributed to a reduction in illegal border crossings by more than 80%.