San Antonio – Texas will soon receive a $7.5 billion reimbursement from the federal government for expenses tied to Operation Lone Star, the state‑wide border‑security initiative launched by Governor Greg Abbott. The grant was approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and was announced by Governor Abbott on Friday.
Federal funding details
The reimbursement comes from a border‑security program created under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. In a statement, Governor Abbott said he spoke with Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, who confirmed that DHS will transfer the funds to Texas. Abbott added, “Texas held the line when Washington would not.”
Operation Lone Star costs and results
Since its inception, Texas has spent more than $11 billion on Operation Lone Star. The money has funded Texas National Guard and Department of Public Safety personnel, the construction of barriers and fencing, and other security measures along the southern border. According to the governor’s office, illegal border crossings have fallen by more than 80 % since the operation began.
How the reimbursement fits into the state budget
The $7.5 billion payment represents roughly three‑quarters of the $10 billion in state grant funding available through the DHS program. Texas submitted its application for the reimbursement in June, and the funds are expected to be incorporated into the state budget as lawmakers reconvene at the Capitol in January.
Additional federal resources being pursued
Beyond the DHS grant, Texas is also seeking money from a separate $3.5 billion Department of Justice reimbursement program that covers immigration‑related law‑enforcement costs. The combined federal support underscores the partnership between state and federal agencies in addressing border‑security challenges.
Implications for Texas residents
Governor Abbott emphasized that the reimbursement will help offset the financial burden Texas has shouldered to protect its communities. By recouping a substantial portion of the costs, the state can redirect resources toward other priorities, including education, infrastructure and public safety initiatives that benefit families across Texas.
State officials plan to use the incoming funds to maintain and enhance existing border‑security infrastructure while continuing to support the National Guard and public‑safety personnel who have been on the front lines of the effort.
Original reporting: KTSA News/Talk (San Antonio) — read the source article.
