In response to what he describes as the federal government’s failure to secure the border, Gov. Greg Abbott has issued an executive order mandating that Texas hospitals track the healthcare costs associated with illegal immigrants. Abbott stressed that the Biden-Harris administration should be held accountable for these expenses, which he says are a direct result of the administration’s border policies.
Starting November 1, 2024, hospitals in Texas will be required to collect and report data on the number of illegal immigrants they treat and the associated costs. This initiative is designed to ensure that Texas taxpayers are not unfairly burdened by the costs of healthcare services provided to individuals not lawfully present in the country. The first annual report is expected in January 2026 and will be submitted to the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, and the Speaker of the House.
Abbott’s directive is the latest in a series of measures aimed at pushing back against federal immigration policies. By requiring a detailed accounting of the healthcare costs tied to illegal immigration, Abbott hopes to build a case for demanding federal reimbursement. This executive order reflects Abbott’s determination to protect state resources and ensure that Texas is not left to shoulder the financial consequences of federal decisions alone.
