Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas – Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez issued a disaster declaration after receiving credible information from federal officials that large groups of migrants are amassing near the border. These groups could potentially surge the border upon the expiration of Title 42.
View the declaration below:
Disaster Declaration 5.11.2023“I have received credible information from officials with Customs and Border Protection that large groups of migrants are probing our international border in search of crossing points,” Cortez said. “I have decided to declare this emergency as a first step in securing all available state and federal resources to ensure the health and safety of our residents.”
The disaster declaration will go into effect immediately and last for seven days unless the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court extends the declaration.
Although Hidalgo County has no authority when it comes to immigration, county officials have been working closely to provide any support that federal and state law enforcement may require. This includes securing the perimeter of immigration operations and providing other types of tactical support.
Title 42 is set to expire at 11 p.m. local time on Thursday.
“The safety and health of Hidalgo County residents is my number one concern,” Cortez said. “I have said all along that I would move quickly to help with security if I were asked. I have been asked.”
The declaration says, “A surge in migrant crossings is a significant public safety and security concern, including but not limited to the risk of injury or loss of life and property.”
