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Governor Signs Record $8.5 Billion Public Education Funding, Teacher Pay Raise Into Law

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Governor Signs Record $8.5 Billion Public Education Funding, Teacher Pay Raise Into Law
Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 2 into law to provide a record $8.5 billion in new funding for public education and a historic $4 billion for teacher and staff pay raises during a bill signing ceremony with over 175 educators, students, and parents at Salado Middle School. Photo: Office of The Governor
Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 2 into law to provide a record $8.5 billion in new funding for public education and a historic $4 billion for teacher and staff pay raises during a bill signing ceremony with over 175 educators, students, and parents at Salado Middle School. Photo: Office of The Governor

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Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 2 into law to provide a record $8.5 billion in new funding for public education and a historic $4 billion for teacher and staff pay raises during a bill signing ceremony with over 175 educators, students, and parents at Salado Middle School.

“Now is the time to make Texas No. 1 in educating our children,” said Governor Abbott. “House Bill 2 ensures that our schools are funded better than ever, teacher pay and student funding are at all time highs, reading and math performance will improve, and students will be better prepared for the workforce. The foundation is now in place for Texas education to start climbing the ranks.” 

View the Governor’s full bill signing ceremony here. 

The Governor was joined at the bill signing by Chairman Brandon Creighton, Chairman Brad Buckley, Salado Independent School District (ISD) Superintendent Dr. Michael Novotny, and Temple ISD teacher JoMeka Gray.

JoMeka Gray is a Kindergarten teacher at Kennedy-Powell Elementary School and just completed her 13th year as an educator and mentor. She was recognized as the 2024 Region 12 Teacher of the Year and a 2025 Texas Teacher of the Year Finalist. JoMeka is the wife of an Army veteran and mother of two and currently serves as a Senior Policy Fellow with Teach Plus Texas.

Photo: Office of The Governor

“House Bill 2 is more than just policy—it is a promise to our teachers,” said Ms. Gray. “This legislation touches the lives of 5.5 million students enrolled in Texas public schools. It strengthens the teaching profession and largely supports the needs of special education students. On behalf of Texas educators, parents, and students, I offer my deepest thanks to our Governor and Legislature for supporting the future of public education.” 

The Governor was also joined by Senator Pete Flores; Representatives Charles Cunningham, Paul Dyson, Caroline Harris Davila, Stan Gerdes, Ryan Guillen, Helen Kerwin, Stan Kitzman, Mark LaHood, Terri Leo-Wilson, Shelley Luther, John McQueeney, Angelia Orr, Katrina Pierson, Joanne Shofner, Valoree Swanson, Denise Villalobos, Wes Virdell; Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath; and other state and local officials. 

Photo: Office of The Governor

In his 2025 State of the State Address, Governor Abbott declared expanding career training and a teacher pay raise as emergency items this legislative session, and this record public education funding package delivers on those promises. House Bill 2 expands career and technical education—especially in rural areas—by increasing funding for high-demand fields and career training facilities. It also rewards exemplary teachers with permanent pay raises, investing in high-quality teacher preparation programs and providing incentives to help schools get their existing teachers certified.

This record $8.5 billion in new funding for public education includes key investments like:

  • $4 billion for teacher and staff pay raises and expansion of the Teacher Incentive Allotment, Texas’ merit-based pay program
  • $153 million to expand career and technical education opportunities
  • $834 million for special education reforms
  • $648 million targeted to strategies for improving early literacy and numeracy
  • $187 million for teacher preparation and certification programs
  • $430 million to increase the school safety allotment
  • $1.3 billion for school district operational costs, including insurance, transportation, and utilities
  • $199 million to expand the charter school facilities allotment
  • $318 million to provide additional funding to small and rural schools
  • $296 million for adjustments to the Tier II funding formula, which provides a $55 basic allotment increase per-student

Yesterday, Governor Abbott announced that more than $481 million in Teacher Incentive Allotment funds were awarded for over 42,000 designated Texas teachers during the 2024-25 school year. 

House Bill 2 (Buckley/Creighton) builds on the school finance reforms from 2019 by providing an additional $8.5 billion in various high impact funding strategies, including those identified in the Governor’s 2025 State of the State Address and Budget priorities.

Fueled by Family, Empowered by Education

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Fueled by Family, Empowered by Education
A full-time secretary at South Texas College’s Starfish office, Rosales is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, while juggling work, school and raising two daughters as a single mom. STC Image
A full-time secretary at South Texas College’s Starfish office, Rosales is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, while juggling work, school and raising two daughters as a single mom. STC Image

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Frances Rosales, 38, is proving that it’s never too late to go back to school. A full-time secretary at South Texas College’s Starfish office, Rosales is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, while juggling work, school and raising two daughters as a single mom. 

Rosales originally began college right after high school in 2004, but had to put her education on hold when she became an assistant store manager at Sears, a popular department store chain selling a wide variety of merchandise such as clothing, tools and appliances. Balancing school and the demands of retail management proved difficult.  

“Going to school and working wasn’t an option at the time,” she said. 

However, when she started working at STC years later through a temporary staffing agency, something shifted. 

“If I hadn’t started working here, I wouldn’t have come back,” she said. “I told myself, ‘I’m already here. Let me try again.’” 

Rosales earned a certificate and associate degree in business administration and is now well on her way to completing her bachelor’s degree.  

Rosales said she hopes she is setting a positive example for her daughters. 

“They’re watching everything I do,” she said. “When I walked the stage for my associate degree and they told me, ‘Mommy, we’re proud of you,’ that meant everything.” 

Rosales credits the support around her for helping her succeed especially her supervisors and colleagues at STC. 

 “The Business Administration faculty are amazing. They guide you and work with you,” she said. “My boss, Shannon Perales, STC Starfish administrator, is the reason I came back to school.” 

Despite her busy schedule, Rosales is also a Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society officer and a part of the Academic Excellence Program. While she takes all her classes online, she’s found that STC still provides a sense of connection among students. 

“I’ve had so many great experiences through work and school,” she said. “Everyone here feels like family.” 

Rosales hopes her journey reminds others especially single parents that it’s never too late to continue your education. 

“It’s hard, but it’s possible,” she said. “You just have to keep remembering why you’re doing it.” 

Information source: STC

Op Ed: A Mistake for Texas and Our Future

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Op Ed: A Mistake for Texas and Our Future
"In a state known for its commitment to opportunity, growth , and strong values, we should be supporting our young people, not pushing them away." --Senator Hinojosa. Courtesy image. Bgd source: Facebook for illustration purposes
“In a state known for its commitment to opportunity, growth , and strong values, we should be supporting our young people, not pushing them away.” –Senator Hinojosa. Courtesy image. Bgd source: Facebook for illustration purposes

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By State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa

The recent decision by the U.S. Department of Justice to challenge Texas’ policy allowing Dreamers — undocumented students who came to the United States as children and have lived in our country, many for most of their lives — to pay in-state tuition is not just a bad legal move; it goes against the values we cherish as Americans. In a state known for its commitment to opportunity, growth, and strong values, we should be supporting our young people, not pushing them away.

Since 2001, Texas has been a leader by letting undocumented students access in-state tuition if they meet certain requirements. This policy, started by former Governor Rick Perry, has opened doors for thousands of students who contribute to our communities. At the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), which I represent, this decision will take away affordable education from over 800 Dreamers.

The financial difference is shocking: at UTRGV, the cost for in-state tuition for one semester is $4,993.20, while the non-Texas resident tuition is nearly double at $9,913.20. For a whole year, in-state tuition is $9,986.40 versus $22,136 for non-Texas residents. This isn’t just a few dollars; it’s a real barrier for many families. If Dreamers lose in-state tuition, they will be treated like out of state students and will likely not be able to afford college.

The effects of this change go far beyond just these students. Taking away in-state tuition will keep many talented people from finishing their degrees or even attending college, hurting Texas in the long run. College graduates are important for our families and communities, and they help our economy grow, filling key jobs in areas like healthcare, education, and technology.

Research shows that ending in-state tuition could cost Texas about $461 million a year in economic activity—this includes $244.4 million in lost wages and $216.9 million in reduced spending. These outcomes will hurt businesses and communities across our state and weaken our economy.

Attorney General Ken Paxton claims this law is “un-American.” I strongly disagree. This policy reflects our commitment to hard work and the belief that those who contribute to our state deserve opportunities to succeed. Supporting education for these students is not only good for them but also for the future of Texas. 

This decision weakens the community spirit that defines us as Texans. When we work toward a better future, we must lift each other up. Supporting in-state tuition for undocumented students aligns with our values and shows our commitment to a brighter future for our state. To do anything else would indeed be un-American.

Information source: The Office of Senator Hinojosa

Port of Brownsville Honors High School Graduates

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Port of Brownsville Honors High School Graduates
 Brownsville Navigation District (BND) has awarded 34 graduating high school seniors the 2025 Port of Brownsville Scholarship, recognizing academic excellence, community service, and leadership. Courtesy image
 Brownsville Navigation District (BND) has awarded 34 graduating high school seniors the 2025 Port of Brownsville Scholarship, recognizing academic excellence, community service, and leadership. Courtesy image

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BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Brownsville Navigation District (BND) has awarded 34 graduating high school seniors the 2025 Port of Brownsville Scholarship, recognizing academic excellence, community service, and leadership.

Each recipient will receive a $1,000 scholarship upon enrollment at a college, university, or technical school. Students were selected based on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, community engagement, work experience, and a personal essay submitted as part of the application process. Recipients represent 17 public and private high schools within the navigation district.

courtesy image

“Congratulations to the graduating class of 2025, on behalf of the Brownsville Navigation District, we are proud of you,” said BND Chairman Esteban Guerra. “At the port, we believe in the power of education and it is our privilege to help these students reach their academic potential for a brighter future.”

The Port of Brownsville Scholarship Program was established in 2020 by the BND Board of Commissioners to support local students in pursuing higher education. To date, the program has awarded $192,000 to 192 students attending schools within the district.

The 34 graduating seniors eligible for the Port of Brownsville scholarships include:
Brownsville Independent Scholl District
Brownsville Early College High School
Karen M. Anaya
Tianna Resendez
Hanna Early College High School
Lesli B. Cauich
Ana S. Ortega
Lopez Early College High School
Karen Vizcaya
Jasmarie Cortinas
Pace Early College High School
Valeria Can
Anllelin Sanchez
Porter Early College High School
Miguel Medeles
Victoria Ruiz
Rivera Early College High School
Develyn Martinez
Gabriella Vega
Veterans Memorial Early College High School
Brianna Brackhahn
Perla Mendoza
First Baptist School
Carlos Chantaca
Isaac Badillo
Harmony Public Schools
Harmony School of Innovation
Miranda Del Carmen Camacho
Hitace Kubra Cig
Idea Public Schools
IDEA Brownsville College Preparatory
Anakaren Guerrero
Lauren Treviño
IDEA Frontier College Preparatory
Deyanara Castro
Natally Medellin
IDEA Riverview College Preparatory
Andrea Navarrete
Valeria Salas
IDEA Sports Park College Preparatory
Diego Rojas
Emiliano Rodriguez
Jubilee Academies
Jubilee Brownsville
Rodrigo Martinez
Kayden Whitefield
Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District
Los Fresnos High School
Aliza Lemus
Santiago Gomez
Saint Joseph Academy
Ryan Castillo
Jimena Herrera
South Texas Independent
South Texas ISD Medical Professions
Miguel Martinez
Evania Martinez

Social Security Employee Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Fraud Scheme

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Social Security Employee Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Fraud Scheme
David Lam, 45, Pearland, was an operations supervisor and claims specialist for the Social Security Administration (SSA) office in Houston. Image for illustration purposes
David Lam, 45, Pearland, was an operations supervisor and claims specialist for the Social Security Administration (SSA) office in Houston. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

HOUSTON – A former Social Security employee has admitted to conspiracy and aggravated identity theft.

David Lam, 45, Pearland, was an operations supervisor and claims specialist for the Social Security Administration (SSA) office in Houston.

As part of his plea, Lam admitted to stealing the personally identifying information (PII) of recently deceased men and then using that PII to facilitate fraudulent benefits applications. 

Lam admitted to working with various coconspirators—typically, women with children—to file fraudulent survivor benefits applications listing the deceased men as the children’s fathers or stepfathers. If true, this would have entitled the women to receive benefits while raising their children as widows. However, the women had no connection to the men listed on the applications and the deceased men did not father the children. To facilitate his scheme, Lam would utilize the deceased men’s names, dates of birth and death and Social Security numbers. 

He would also instruct the coconspirators to split the stolen funds with him. The women would transfer funds via applications like Zelle, CashApp or Chime. Lam agreed to take responsibility for causing $3,346,280 in loss to the SSA and has agreed to pay that amount in restitution.   

U.S. District Judge Sim Lake will impose sentencing Sept. 12. At that time, Lam faces up to five years in federal prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States on the conspiracy charge and a $250,000 maximum fine. He will also face two years for aggravated identity theft which must run consecutively to any sentence imposed.   

The SSA-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Gray is prosecuting the case.   

Updated June 5, 2025

Laredo Area Alien Smuggling Ring Taken Down

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Laredo Area Alien Smuggling Ring Taken Down
Two men have been ordered to federal prison for their roles in an extensive human smuggling conspiracy. Image for illustration purposes
Two men have been ordered to federal prison for their roles in an extensive human smuggling conspiracy. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

LAREDO, Texas – Two men have been ordered to federal prison for their roles in an extensive human smuggling conspiracy. 

Manuel Capetillo, 27, Poteet, and Michael Diaz, 31, Laredo, pleaded guilty Feb. 4 and March 4, respectively.

U.S. District Judge John A. Kazen has now imposed an 85-month-term of imprisonment for Capetillo, while Diaz received 70 months. Both men were also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following their sentences. Diaz was further ordered to pay a $10,000 special assessment. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the inhumane conditions in which the aliens were transported and that Capetillo and Diaz had made a business out of smuggling aliens. “You thought of these people as cattle,” he said. Judge Kazen also commented on Capetillo’s leadership role and that he was one of the highest-level players in the region he had seen. 

Capetillo and Diaz are attributed with smuggling over 65 aliens, including adults and children as young as six, who came from multiple countries as far south as Guatemala and as close as Mexico. Both had received cash payments in excess of $50,000 during their operations.

The investigation revealed both men operated stash houses in Laredo and that Capetillo also operated one in Poteet. Over several months, Capetillo recruited drivers, scouts and caretakers to bring aliens in from countries in Central America and transport them throughout the southern and central areas of Texas.

Capetillo negotiated prices with Mexican smugglers on how much and to whom would be paid for aliens illegally crossing into the United States. He also negotiated with Mexican nationals to provide weapons for the wars taking place in Monterrey, Mexico, and importing drugs into the United States.  

Diaz worked in close connection with Capetillo to rent a yard in Laredo and load aliens into inoperable vehicles, place them on top of tow trucks and smuggle them to Capetillo’s Poteet stash house in the Southern Texas heat. Capetillo paid Diaz for his role in the conspiracy.

Previously released on bond, Capetillo was taken into custody following the sentencing where he will remain pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. Diaz has been and will remain in custody.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation with the assistance of police departments in Laredo and Poteet. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tory Sailer prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

Updated June 5, 2025

Jury Convicts Houston Trucker of Transporting Illegal Aliens

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Jury Convicts Houston Trucker of Transporting Illegal Aliens
A 66-year-old Houston resident who has been a lawful permanent resident in the United States since 1989 has been convicted of smuggling aliens further into the country. Image for illustration purposes
A 66-year-old Houston resident who has been a lawful permanent resident in the United States since 1989 has been convicted of smuggling aliens further into the country. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 66-year-old Houston resident who has been a lawful permanent resident in the United States since 1989 has been convicted of smuggling aliens further into the country.

The jury deliberated for approximately one hour before returning the guilty verdict against Armando Balladares-Prado following a two-day trial.

On May 5, 2024, Balladares-Prado pulled up to the Border Patrol checkpoint south of Falfurrias for primary immigration inspection. The jury heard that he seemed nervous but provided consent for an x-ray examination of his tractor-trailer. The vehicle was completely empty but had a seal and lock on it as if there was a full transport load in the back.

Authorities soon found two individuals hidden underneath the bed of the sleeper compartment. Both were determined to be citizens of Guatemala illegally present in the United States.

Testimony revealed Balladares-Prado told the aliens to get under the bed and instructed them on what to say if law enforcement discovered them.

The defense attempted to convince the jury the aliens had gotten into the tractor and pulled the bed down on top of themselves. Contradictory evidence showed that to be virtually impossible. The jury was not convinced of defense claims and found Balladares-Prado guilty as charged.   

U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos presided over trial and set sentencing for Sept. 3. At that time, Balladares-Prado faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

Previously released on bond, he was taken into custody following the conviction where he will remain pending sentencing.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Griffith prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

Updated June 5, 2025

More than 250 Texas Organizations Urge Congress to Reject SNAP Cuts

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More than 250 Texas Organizations Urge Congress to Reject SNAP Cuts
The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley joins Feeding Texas in releasing a sign-on letter endorsed by over 250 statewide and local organizations across Texas that calls on Congress to reject proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Image for illustration purposes
The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley joins Feeding Texas in releasing a sign-on letter endorsed by over 250 statewide and local organizations across Texas that calls on Congress to reject proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Image for illustration purposes

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The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley joins Feeding Texas in releasing a sign-on letter endorsed by over 250 statewide and local organizations across Texas that calls on Congress to reject proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The letter, addressed to Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, warns that the proposed $300 billion in SNAP reductions would devastate Texas families, seniors, veterans, and the state’s economy.

“SNAP is not just a hunger relief program—it’s a lifeline for millions of Texans and a critical economic engine for our state,” said Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas, the state association of food banks. “These proposed cuts would force Texas to shoulder billions in new costs or slash benefits, leaving families to go hungry and increasing strain on food banks and local economies.”

The letter outlines the far-reaching consequences of the proposed changes, including a state cost-share requirement that could cost Texas an additional $2.3 billion per biennium, the elimination of the SNAP-Ed nutrition education program that helps participants make healthy food choices on a limited budget, and expanded work requirements that would impact seniors and parents of young children.

“SNAP is often the only thing standing between a family and hunger,” said Libby A. Saenz, CEO of the Food Bank RGV. “Cuts like these would make it harder for families to get by and put even more pressure on food banks across Texas.”

“SNAP already provides modest support—just six dollars per person per day—but it makes a world of difference for families trying to stay afloat,” Cole said. “Cutting this program will make it harder for families to put food on the table and increase hunger in the state of Texas.”

The letter also highlights the economic ripple effects of SNAP, which generated an estimated $10.73 billion in economic activity for Texas in 2024 and supported more than 94,000 jobs.

“Our message is simple: Protect SNAP. Protect Texas,” Cole said. “We urge Senators Cornyn and Cruz to stand with the more than 250 organizations—including food banks, faith-based groups, healthcare providers, retailers and community advocates—that signed this letter and vote no on any budget that includes harmful SNAP cuts.”

The full letter and list of signatories can be found here: Protect SNAP Sign-On Letter

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Feeding Texas is a network of 20 food banks and leads a unified effort for a hunger-free Texas. Learn more and find your local food bank at www.feedingtexas.org.

Information source: Food Bank RGV

Governor Abbott Signs Oilfield Theft Protection, Pro-Growth Legislation into Law

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Governor Abbott Signs Oilfield Theft Protection, Pro-Growth Legislation into Law
"Today is a defining moment for the Permian Basin, the future of this region, and the future of Texas," said Governor Abbott. Phot: Office of The Governor
“Today is a defining moment for the Permian Basin, the future of this region, and the future of Texas,” said Governor Abbott. Phot: Office of The Governor

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MIDLAND — Governor Greg Abbott signed into law key legislation to protect Texas’ oil and gas industry and promote economic growth across West Texas, including Senate Bill 494, Senate Bill 529, Senate Bill 1806, House Bill 48, and the Beacon Budget Appropriation, during a bill signing ceremony at the Permian Basin Petroleum Museum.

Signing the legislation into law. Photo: Office of The Governor

“Today is a defining moment for the Permian Basin, the future of this region, and the future of Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “We are bringing the full weight of the law to crack down on oil theft in the Permian Basin to protect the critical role energy development plays in fueling our economy. I’m also signing an item to fund an historic $123 million investment in The Beacon, a pivotal economic development project for Midland-Odessa.”

View the Governor’s full bill signing ceremony here. 

Organized criminals and cartels have increasingly targeted oil pipelines and storage tanks, stealing millions of dollars from communities in the Permian Basin. Through Senate Bill 494, Senate Bill 1806, and House Bill 48, Texas will combat petroleum product theft and protect the energy industry – the lifeblood of the state economy. 

Photo: Office of The Governor

Texas is investing in the future of the Permian Basin as it takes steps to improve collaboration among the energy industry and community partners to advance economic development opportunities throughout the region. Through a $123 million appropriation, The Beacon project will extend and enhance access to quality healthcare and education while also providing residential and retail space for the region’s growing population. 

The Governor was joined by former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Don Evans, Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick, Senator Kevin Sparks, Representative Tom Craddick, Representative Brooks Landgraf, Midland Mayor Lori Blong, and other state and local officials and energy leaders.

Senate Bill 494 (Sparks/Landgraf) establishes a petroleum product theft task force. 

Senate Bill 529 (Sparks/Craddick) alters the tax code for the City of Midland to divert certain collected tax revenue for economic development projects. 

Senate Bill 1806 (Sparks/Craddick) provides the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) with additional tools to combat oil and gas theft. 

House Bill 48 (Darby/Sparks) creates an organized oilfield theft prevention unit within DPS to protect oilfield assets, support the energy industry, safeguard economic stability, and enhance public safety.

Beacon Budget Appropriation was appropriated by the Texas Legislature to the Texas Facilities Commission to support Beacon Healthcare in extending healthcare, research, residential, and retails spaces in the region.

Supreme Court Dismisses Mexico’s Lawsuit Against U.S. Gunmakers

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Supreme Court Dismisses Mexico’s Lawsuit Against U.S. Gunmakers
The Court ruled that the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) shields these companies from liability for crimes committed with their products. Image for illustration purposes
The Court ruled that the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) shields these companies from liability for crimes committed with their products. Image for illustration purposes

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TEXAS BORDER BUSINESS

On June 5, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously dismissed a $10 billion lawsuit filed by the Mexican government against American gun manufacturers, including Smith & Wesson and Beretta. The Court ruled that the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) shields these companies from liability for crimes committed with their products.  

Justice Elena Kagan, writing for the Court, stated that Mexico’s complaint did not plausibly allege that the gunmakers knowingly aided and abetted illegal firearms trafficking. The decision emphasized that the PLCAA was enacted to prevent lawsuits attempting to hold gun manufacturers accountable for the criminal misuse of their products by third parties.    

The lawsuit, originally filed in 2021, accused U.S. gun companies of contributing to cartel violence by facilitating the flow of firearms into Mexico. However, the Court found that the allegations did not meet the legal standards required to overcome the protections granted by the PLCAA.   

This ruling reinforces the legal protections afforded to firearm manufacturers under U.S. law, limiting their liability for crimes committed with their products.

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