Texas Governor Announces $5.1 Billion Plan to Secure Border with Mexico Using “Water-Based Barrier” of Buoys in Rio Grande

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced Thursday that the state will be taking steps to secure its border with Mexico with a “water-based barrier” of buoys in the Rio Grande.

At a news conference, Abbott said that the Texas Legislature had appropriated $5.1 billion to secure the border. The project is being overseen by Steve McCraw, the director of the Department of Public Safety, and Thomas Suelzer, a general in the National Guard.

“What we’re doing right now, we’re securing the border at the border,” Abbott said. “What these buoys will allow us to do is to prevent people from even getting to the border.”

The announcement came after Abbott signed six bills related to border security. The bills are aimed at increasing law enforcement presence, providing resources to local law enforcement, and increasing penalties for human smuggling.

Abbott also said that the state is working with the federal government to create a “virtual wall” along the border. This would involve the use of drones, sensors, and other technology to detect and deter illegal crossings.

The governor said that the state is committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens and will continue to take steps to secure the border. He added that the state will continue to work with the federal government to ensure that the border is secure.