Biden Border Wall Revival Sparks Controversy in Starr County Exploring Funding and Environmental Concerns

Biden Border Wall Revival Sparks Controversy: Some oppose the Biden administration’s revival of the border wall plans in Starr County. Still, it’s crucial to note that the funding was allocated in 2019 by the previous administration.

Mark Kaswan, a political science professor at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, says the wall’s funding was initially diverted from military building projects due to an emergency order. This order was revoked by President Biden in 2021.

But in Fall 2023, rumours of an 18-foot border wall are back. Since Congress allocated the unused billions of dollars for the wall, Kaswan argues that the Biden administration is legally obligated to construct it.

Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, stated that the government must abide by the law, which requires using these funds for wall construction.

Despite government efforts to expedite construction, concerns still need to be addressed, particularly regarding the waiver of 26 federal laws. Jazmin Santibaez Contreras fights for human rights and the environment, emphasizing the importance of environmental protection laws. There are concerns about the wall’s impact on ecosystems, air and water quality, and the animals that rely on the river.

Kaswan also discusses the “takings clause,” allowing government land acquisition with fair compensation. Some landlords reject government compensation as insufficient. This may cause delays. This is why some landowners who support the wall have sued the government.

Concerns exist regarding the border wall’s impact on floodwater flow. Flooding damage may worsen if debris accumulates against the wall, obstructing water flow.

Starr County, Texas, plans to construct 20 miles of new border walls. The walls will have 18-ft-tall bollards on a concrete base resembling a jersey barrier. Other project parts include maintenance and patrol roads, lights, gates, cameras, equipment shelters, erosion prevention, access roads, and water sources for building and dust prevention.

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Our Reader’s Queries

What is bidens border policy?

The U.S. Supreme Court on June 23, 2023, approved the enforcement of a Biden Administration immigration policy that allows for the deportation of individuals considered a threat to public safety, as well as those apprehended at the border. The court’s decision also upheld the prosecution of individuals who promote illegal immigration.

What are the 3 aspects of border security?

DHS enhances border security with personnel, technology, and infrastructure. High-tech tools like drones, manned aircraft, sensors, radar, and autonomous surveillance towers enable aerial surveillance and monitoring of border barriers, bolstering DHS’s border capacity and effectiveness.

What is the best way to secure the border?

Border security relies on three main components: personnel, technology, and infrastructure. These elements join forces to discourage and stop the unlawful infiltration of drugs, contraband, or individuals.