AUSTIN (KXAN) — Texas leaders announced Thursday the transfer of nearly $875 million to public safety and recovery initiatives in the state, such as school safety and border security.
Of the $874.6 million, $15 million is earmarked to help build a new elementary school in Uvalde.
A week after the shooting at Robb Elementary School that killed 19 students and two teachers in May, the school district announced that students and staff would not be returning to campus. This announcement came after President Biden reportedly told a local official that he wants to demolish the school.
The money will go to state agencies and programs for initiatives that include enhanced border security operations and school safety, according to a news release. The remaining money will be used for the following:
- $400 million to help school districts replace or upgrade doors, windows, fences, communications and other safety measures
- $339 million to the Texas Department of Defense for continued border security activities related to Operation Lone Star.
- $20.6 million to support other state agencies under Operation Lone Star to continue responding to the border crisis
- $100 million for the Texas Department of Emergency Management for COVID-19 response costs
“The state of Texas is working around the clock to support critical public safety efforts, including protecting communities across the state from the growing threats crossing our southern border and improving the security of Texas schools,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “Texas continues to provide support to the Uvalde community in the aftermath of the tragedy as they rebuild. I thank my legislative partners for quickly providing these additional funds to ensure the continued safety and security of all Texans. Working together, we will continue to enhance public safety across the country and support Uvalde in their efforts to heal and move forward.”
The Legislature will address school safety issues, including additional funding for school safety, during the next legislative session.
The press release also states that the Texas Department of Public Safety will continue to carry out its duties under Operation Lone Star, using funds from other agencies to cover related costs and will submit any additional appropriations necessary to the legislature to consider them during the next legislative session.
Read the state executive offer letter and the governor’s approval letter here.