AUSTIN – Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the Texas Senate’s passage of Senate Bill 4, Increasing Penalties Against Human Smuggling and Stash Houses, by Sen. Pete Flores, R-Pleasanton:

“Texans are tired of the Biden Administration’s abdication of their constitutional responsibility to enforce the southern border. As the Administration’s lack of action endangers Texans and all Americans, the passage of SB 4 will support Texas’ historic efforts to secure the border and maintain public safety.

“The Texas Senate has been working diligently to address the priorities of Texans. We passed this bill 29-2 with overwhelming support. This is now the third time the Texas Senate has passed this bill. The Texas Senate will pass this bill over and over again until it passes the Texas House.”

SB 4, by Sen. Pete Flores, provides mandatory minimum sentences for the operation of stash houses and for human smuggling, and increases penalties for these crimes committed during a disaster declaration.